Marrakech: Huff tops test from Chilton’s Ford

Rob Huff posted the fastest lap in today’s 30-minute test session at Marrakech; however it was Tom Chilton who created a surprise, emerging as second quickest in his Team Aon Ford Focus.

All drivers had a very cautious approach on their first outing on the North African street circuit, and this was proved by the fact that no incidents were reported during the session but Isaac Tutumlu’s spin at Turn 7 on his first lap out.

Lap time improvements were steady and consistent from Mehdi Bennani’s 1:51.752 in the early stages to Huff’s 1:46.285. The Briton and his Chevrolet Cruze left the rest of the field eight tenths behind.

For the first time a Ford Focus car fought for top places, as Chilton was timed at 1:47.114 that was the provisional fastest lap for three minutes, until Huff crossed the line while the chequered flag was waved.

Alain Menu (1:47.202) and Gabriele Tarquini (1:47.309) ranked third and fourth respectively, with Alex MacDowall (1:47.655) in fifth and best of the Yokohama Trophy.

Reigning champion and current point leader Yvan Muller posted the seventh best time (1:48.016) followed by the fastest BMW, Franz Engstler.s (1:48.108). Local hero Bennani was classified 14th (1:49.324).

The drivers will hit the track again tomorrow morning for two 30-minute practice sessions (9.30 and 12.15), while qualifying will start at 16.15.