Scirocco Cup: Famous Nurburgring victory for Indian Patel

Aditya Patel became the first Indian driver to win a Scirocco R-Cup race when he took the chequered flag at the Nürburgring last weekend.

The 22-year-old from Chennai led every lap of the race in his natural gas powered coupe to take victory ahead of championship leader Maciek Steinhof and Nordschleife legend Olaf Manthey.

The thrilling 14-lap race offered numerous overtaking maneuvers and close duels throughout.

Polish racer Steinhof had the perfect start from eighth on the grid and made up as many as four places on the opening lap.

German legend Manthey also had a good race on his return to touring cars, making clever use of his additional push-to-pass power to take the final podium position.

Patel spoke of his delight at winning his first Scirocco R-Cup race, saying: “What an indescribable feeling! My first victory outside of India and at the famous Nürburgring straight away, that’s simply fantastic. I knew that I’m quick enough.

“I was a little worried because Steinhof was right behind me – but I managed to defend my lead.”

Watch VW Scirocco R-Cup highlights from the Nurburgring on Saturday 14 August at 8:45pm(BST) on Motors TV.


Josh Modaberi