My goal for the rest of the season is to maximise every weekend
From winning on just his fifth start with the i30 N TCR in TCR UK, through challenging for the 2023 title and then winning on his debut with the Elantra N TCR in TCR Italy, Alex Ley’s journey through the category has been filled with success in both cars produced by Hyundai Motorsport. This weekend his TCR season takes him to another new stop in his career – the famous Imola circuit.
You moved from TCR UK to TCR Italy for this season. What was the reason for that decision?
I wanted to improve my skill level and expand my knowledge of different tracks and compete in a tough TCR championship with a large grid. TCR Italy fitted all of these perfectly.
What would you say are the main differences between the i30 N TCR and the Elantra N TCR?
The main differences I felt coming from the i30 N TCR to the Elantra N TCR are the different feelings in the handling, though they are both great cars. The Elantra N TCR has bump steer at the rear that means the car rotates when under load into the corner. The i30 N TCR doesn’t which makes cornering and oversteer feel different.
What has it been link working with Target Competition – a very experienced team in TCR?
It is great to work with Target Competition and my engineer. We have known them since the start of our Hyundai TCR journey and it’s good having their experience with the Elantra N TCR and the Italian tracks.
With so many of the tracks being new to you for this year, how do you prepare for each weekend?
The simulator has been my best friend😂 It was also helpful having the tests with BRC Racing Team last year when I was part of the Hyundai Motorsport Junior Driver programme which gave me some good knowledge of Misano and Mugello.
What had been the highlight of your season?
The highlights of my season have got to be qualifying on pole at the first round in Misano, the win at Misano in Race 1 win and the new lap record. Overall, the speed and race pace we have had this year has been really good.
What are your goals for the rest of the season, and for your future racing career?
My goal for the rest of the season is to maximise every weekend, push hard, be consistent, get some more podiums and try to learn as much as possible. My ultimate goal is to compete with Hyundai Motorsport in the World Tour.
Follow Alex Ley on
