Tiago Monteiro aiming to shine in the land of the rising sun

Tiago Monteiro is preparing for the second most important meeting in the 2013 World Touring Car Championship, FIA WTCC. After the challenge of Boavista, in his home country of Portugal, the official Honda driver is now on the team's ground, Japan. In the wake of his excellent performance in the United States two weeks ago, Tiago is now aiming to provide some excellent results for the Japanese car maker that has welcomed him so enthusiastically.

It was one year ago that Tiago and the Honda Civic made their debut for the team here on the Suzuka circuit and it is on this same circuit that he is hoping to secure another podium. "It's a circuit that suits our car and with the home fans supporting us in droves, I think we'll be able to get a good result," said Monteiro. "However, do not forget that we have a weight handicap because of ballast that we will have to carry due to our excellent results in Sonoma. This ballast will have a major influence on the overall performance."

Standing on the podium in the U.S. and doing his part in helping Honda win the constructors' title, Tiago Monteiro is armed with great confidence in his and Honda's capabilities. "It will be a very intense weekend, not only on the track but also off it because Honda has planned many activities throughout the Suzuka weekend. They will occupy most of my time, but when I'm sitting in the car, I will be totally focused on the race. It is very important to continue our series of beautiful results."

Eurosport will broadcast the entire event live with qualifying on Saturday, September 21 at 7:30, and the racing on Sunday, September 22, at 6:15 and 7:15 EST.

Tiago Monteiro - Press Office