On June 25 and 26 the FIA World Touring Car Championship, WTCC, will be in Portugal for the 7th round out of 10 for the 2016 season, an event that is particularly close to Tiago Monteiro's heart. The Portuguese driver has already won races in Estoril and Portimao, in 2008 and 2010, and hopes to repeat success on home soil. An ambitious goal but one very accessible to Tiago, who is particularly fond of the Vila Real circuit, as he counts on the added unconditional support of thousands of his home fans.

Since the beginning of the championship, Tiago has proven that the Honda Civic is more competitive than it has been in previous years as evidenced by his four podiums and ongoing fight for victories. Despite added weight of 70kg, Tiago is hoping to exploit the full potential of his Honda Civic and put on a good show for the fans. "Happiness is racing in front of my home fans and it means more than the weight handicap," assured Tiago. "There is no greater motivation and I am hoping to give the public the opportunity to celebrate a Portuguese victory. But, I also know that the task will not be easy."

The championship is entering a very crucial stage of the season and everyone will need to score big points in the championship. "The races will be hotly contested," confirms Tiago. "And the track is very demanding and requires maximum concentration. We must give the maximum from the start, not make any mistakes and have a good qualifying. There is not a lot of overtaking zones and so it is important to be high up on the starting grid. I look forward to returning to Vila Real and participating in the great festival," concluded Tiago, who is ranked 4th in the championship, just six points behind second place.

Eurosport will be broadcasting both races from Vila Real live on Sunday, June 26 at 15h and 16h.