Round 7 and 8 of the 2024 TCR China Challenge ignited the newly built Daqing Motor Town with thrilling action! Richard Li showcased his remarkable talent during this electrifying race weekend, finishing in 4th and 3rd place in two intense battles. His stellar performance not only earned him a significant number of championship points but also saw him reclaim the top spot in the drivers’ standings. The excitement was palpable as Li charged ahead, proving he’s a force to be reckoned with!
Qualifying
Richard Li delivered an outstanding performance on this brand-new circuit in the qualifying session! He demonstrated remarkable flying lap, mastering the unfamiliar track and securing an impressive 6th fastest position on the starting grid for his Lynk & Co 03 TCR. But that wasn’t all — Li also clinched the reverse grid pole for Race 2 on Sunday, setting the stage for an exhilarating showdown.
Race 7
LI faced a challenging start with a launch control issue, dropping him to 10th place right off the line. Undeterred, he poured every ounce of effort into getting his car back in the fight.
Once the race resumed, LI unleashed his full potential, clocking a personal best lap time of 1:31.162 as he piloted the No. 66 Lynk & Co 03 TCR. By lap 9, he had surged up to 7th position. Then, with a car stranded on the circuit due to mechanical issue, the safety car was deployed, giving LI the chance to catch up with the pack ahead.
On lap 15, LI’s relentless pace propelled him into 5th place, showcasing his fierce competitiveness in the final laps. He closed the gap on the driver in front, and with a spectacular late-braking maneuver in the last sector of the final lap, LI executed a perfect overtake. Completing a multi-overtaking performance in the intense battle of the last laps, LI snatched 4th place just before the chequered flag. It was a phenomenal comeback after a rocky start.
Race 8
With the top six reverse grid regulation in play, Richard Li started Race 2 at the Daqing event from pole position, ready to seize the moment and battle for the top spot on the podium.
However, low tire temperatures led to wheel spin at the start, costing him a position. By lap 4, Li’s No. 66 Lynk&Co 03 TCR was under pressure from an Audi boasting impressive straight-line speed. Choosing to maintain his position, Li held firm in 3rd place, patiently waiting for the right opportunity to strike.
When the safety car was deployed on lap 9, it created the perfect chance for Li to fight for overall positions once again. Li surged back into the lead with just five laps to go after the restart. Although pushed wide by competitors and slipped back to 3rd, he quickly recalibrated his strategy. With remarkable composure, Li defended his position and stepped onto the podium for the fifth time this season, reclaiming the top spot in the TCR China Challenge Drivers’ Standings!
Teamwork Motorsport celebrated a fantastic weekend at Daqing, thanks to Richard Li’s steady race pace and exceptional defensive skills that propelled him back to the championship lead. As the series gears up to return on September 6-8 at the Ningbo International Speedpark, the back-to-back race weekend created an intense schedule in the second half of the 2024 season for Teamwork Motorsport. The entire team is committed to helping Li maintain his advantage.
