To a trained eye, the aerodynamic evolutions brought to the Citroën C-Elysée WTCC over the winter are notable. Yet, it is the livery of the double World Champion that draws attention! After two seasons in white and grey, the bodywork of the Citroën Total team cars is now primarily matte and glossy red making the C-Elysée WTCC more attractive for the fans.
Coming straight from the Geneva International Motor Show, José María López and Yvan Muller were thrilled to get back in the car for two days of testing at the Vallelunga circuit, near Rome. Wednesday, the first session began under sunny skies. Late in the morning, José María López set the benchmark time. Then Yvan Muller took over to lead the set-up work. The best time of the day was posted by Mehdi Bennani, who begins his second season in a Citroën C-Elysée WTCC entered by Sébastien Loeb Racing.
Thursday was split into five 40-minute sessions. Yvan Muller was quickest in the two morning sessions, both on a dry surface and wet track. The weather changed several times, with rain showers, hail and melting snow! Back behind the wheel after the mid-day pause, José María López led the way in the two final sessions. The native of Argentina set the best time of all five sessions.
The FIA WTCC World Championship will begin in France, at Circuit Paul Ricard from April 1-3.
