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Remembering when… López emulated Fangio with home WTCC triumph

José María López strengthened his grip on a third FIA World Touring Car Championship title with WTCC Race of Argentina victory number five on 7 August 2016 to surpass illustrious countryman, the late Juan Manual Fangio, in terms of world championship races won.

El Maestro scored 27 wins in world championship events during his distinguished career: first place for Citroën driver López in the Main Race at Termas de Río Hondo was victory number 28 for the Argentine, who topped the WTCC standings by 117 points afterwards.

"Comparisons are always a bit difficult," said López. "He's the greatest we ever had and everything we have in motor racing is because of him, but it's a nice personal thing."

Despite the high of claiming the DHL pole, there was drama for López when the engine in his C-Elysée had to be replaced overnight, resulting in demotion to the back of the grid for the Opening Race. Undeterred, López charged through to finish fifth with Tom Chilton beating Rob Huff and Yvan Muller to victory.

Starting from pole, López trailed the fast-starting Norbert Michelisz in the Main Race before making his move for the lead on lap seven. Michelisz dropped further back following contact with Muller, leaving Tom Coronel and Huff to complete the podium.

Zdroj: fiawtcc.com