New WTCC driver, new challenge as Catsburg gets LADA seat in Russia

Nick Catsburg will make his FIA World Touring Car Championship debut when he enters ROSNEFT WTCC Race of Russia next week in a third LADA Vesta TC1.

The Dutchman, 27, will replace Mikhail Kozlovskiy (photo) in the LADA Sport ROSNEFT line-up alongside compatriot Jaap van Lagen and 2012 WTCC champion Rob Huff.

Catsburg, who has achieved considerable success in sportscar and endurance events, said: “The LADA Vesta WTCC car is something completely new to me. The first laps during the test in Magny-Cours were a big surprise – this car really requires a specific driving style with all that power on the front axle. Once I got some more laps in, I started to get used to the car and the driving style, and really started to enjoy driving this car. Braking and the car’s performance at high speed were very impressive.”

He added: “This will be a completely new challenge for me. The race will of course be difficult, but with the help of the team and my experienced team-mates I am sure we can do well. The Moscow WTCC round is obviously an important one to LADA and our main sponsor ROSNEFT and it is a real pleasure to share this event with them. I have looked at several onboards from the Moscow Raceway and it looks very technical, I can’t wait to get started.”

ROSNEFT WTCC Race of Russia takes place from 5-7 June.