Josh Files not only is the 2016 ADAC TCR Germany champion, but also successfully laid the foundation for a title defence when the 26-year old crossed the line to take the first win of the season on Saturday.
Having a swarm of 40 cars behind and to deal with three safety car periods, Honda driver Files showed that he forgot nothing over the lengthy winter break.
Being in the nerve-wracking position of leading the whole field onto the home straight as soon as the safety car pulls off into the pits, is enough to make or break a driver. But series veteran Files tried everything to keep cool inside his Honda Civic.
“You got to stay concentrated during the safety car periods. It is never easy, but luckily everything went well. I didn’t notice what was happening behind me. I don’t watch out for that anyway.”
To no one’s surprise, the Brit seemed rather pleased with how his race went.
“A perfect start, I am happy! The key to victory was that I made my way to the front as quickly as possible.
“Steve [Kirsch] was close, but looking behind too much will only make you go slower.”
Target Competition team boss Andreas Gummerer has also been full of praise. Not only for his protégé Files, but also of the TCR Germany itself.
“We are very satisfied. Josh won, we have five drivers inside the top ten and suffered no retirements in this huge field. Of course we want to drive for the championship.
“To have a greater field of competitors in the ADAC TCR is a sure step in the right direction and only helps to make the series more attractive. Today’s issues can certainly be prevented with increased experience.”