Tiago Monteiro prepares for the 2013 season in Valencia

Tiago Monteiro has spent three days at the Spanish circuit of Valencia, with the entire Honda squad in order to prepare for the upcoming 2013 FIA World Touring Car Championship season (WTCC).This was the first time the Portuguese driver has found himself behind the wheel of the Honda Civic since securing a podium finish in the final round of the 2012 season in Macao.

The first test of the year is a very important one for the team and Tiago Monteiro shared the wheel of the Honda Civic with his teammate Gabriele Tarquini. Since the 2012 finale, their machine has benefited from several new parts, mainly in regard to suspension set up as well as shock absorbers.

"This was a test hectic and it was very intense. We have had no problems, which allowed us to do a lot of laps," said Tiago Monteiro. "We’re testing the car in extreme conditions. We underwent several tests of the electronics, engine, brakes etc. ... In our next test, we will concentrate on some very specific areas. The intention is to find a good baseline to help us adapt to various conditions and situations that we will encounter this year."

"These tests are essential for the evolution of the car and I think that the work we have done in recent days has been very productive. Day after day, we feel a little better driving the Honda Civic," concluded Tiago Monteiro.

The Portuguese driver will now fly to Japan where he will participate in the official presentation of the Honda team’s program before returning to Europe for another three days of testing, from 11 to 13 February in Aragon (Spain).