Solid start to 24H Series Esports in TCR

With the change in NEO Endurance from WEC to 24H Series, one of the great benefits of that was the new TCR class being included in a multi-class series for the first time on iRacing. Having been P2 in Pre Qualifying ahead of the series, we were feeling positive of a good showing.

During qualifying, we would not get the most out of our package and start P10 on the grid in what was a tight field. Our sector splits would have indicated a front row start had we optimised the session, so confidence was still there despite the low grid position.

Alexander Lauritzen would take the start, and get through the early laps safely and settle into a rhythm, getting passed a couple of cars within the first hour and staying within sight of the leading group. However within this stint we noticed a performance deficit as the front tyres degraded, and our excellent pace in the first 10 laps would drop off more than our competitors. This gave us reason for concern as the race would continue.

As initially feared, the issue was confirmed in the next stint with Tuomas Tähtelä at the wheel this time, also having the same problem, falling back from the pack during the stint.

The race itself would be one of high attrition, and ultimately our race pace was not where would have liked it to have been. We would finish the 6 hour race in P8, however lessons have been learned as to how we may approach the next round at Circuit of The Americas. No matter what the outcome, you always learn, and can always improve. We will come back stronger next time. 💪