Nilsson reigns at Norisring

Ola Nilsson scored a lights-to-flag victory in the Volkswagen Scirocco R-Cup's visit to the Norisring, keeping his head for the duration of the race before taking a tumble as he celebrated his triumph on the podium.

The pole-sitting Swede held his advantage at the start and remained cool during a safety car period caused by James Molbey's shunt further down the order. Nilsson calmly pulled away at the restart as the chasing pack fought their own battles for position.

Second was disputed by championship leader Mateusz Lisowski and chief title challenger Stefano Proetto. The duo did battle throughout, and on the penultimate lap it seemed that the Pole had sealed runner-up spot. However 2010 Norisring winner Proetto countered brilliantly to retake the position, eventually beating Lisowski by a shade under half a second. Behind them Daniel Lloyd, Aditya Patel and Adam Gladysz completed the top six.

"I’m overjoyed; it’s been a fantastic weekend for me," Nilsson said afterwards. "I managed the restart after the safety car period in an optimum manner. Afterwards I was able to extend my lead and fortunately managed to stay clear of the duels. I felt comfortable on the track throughout the weekend and my car was fantastic to drive.”

However it would not be a perfect weekend for the Swede: during the podium celebrations he lost his footing on the champagne-soaked surface and suffered an embarrassing tumble to the ground. Fortunately Nilsson was unhurt, if a little embarrassed.

Of the legend guest drivers it was 1990 Le Mans victor John Nielsen who put in the best performance, climbing from tenth on the grid to take seventh at the flag. A little further back five-time Le Mans winner Frank Biela fought Jan Lammers for ninth spot, the German eventually overcoming the Dutchman.

Lisowski retains his place at the top of the series standings, 28 points clear of Proetto. Nilsson meanwhile now finds himself fourth, level on points with third place man Lloyd. The next race takes place at the Nurburgring over the weekend of August 5/6.

Catch VW Scirocco R-Cup action live on Motors TV throughout 2011.

James Weeks