‘The information I got during the official practice was very positive’

The second season of Qatar Touring Car Championship (QTCC), organised by the Losail Circuit Sports Club and Qatar Motor Motorcycle Federation, will kick off today together with the WTCC Race of Qatar.
The opening round of QTCC is expected to witness a strong competition between all the participants. Apart from the drivers that took part in the first season, there are new drivers – Nasser al-Kuwari, Mohammed al-Buainan and Ibrahim al-Abdulghani – that will make the championship more challenging.
Defending champion Abdullah al-Khelaifi said he is ready for the new season and hoped to retain the title. “I am very happy to be back and compete in Qatar Touring Car Championship. I hope to be stronger this season as the competition will be more challenging with the new drivers,” said al-Khelaifi.
“The information I got during the official practice was very positive and I will try to make use of it as much as possible. For all of us, it is very motivating that the first round takes place during the WTCC Race of Qatar,” he added,
Another Qatari driver Nasser al-Kuwari was excited to be part of QTCC. “I have experience of participating in the rallies and now I am looking forward to compete in the road racing championship. Although this will be my first time in this championship, I hope to give my best and respect all the drivers,” said al-Kuwari.  
“The competition will be very tough with strong contenders for the title. I want to thank my father for his great support to take part in this championship. The ambience this weekend will be very exciting as racing together with the WTCC gives a great incentive to all of us,” he added.
Today, the free practice is scheduled at 4:45pm, followed by qualifying practice from 7:45 to 8:45pm. The first race will be held tomorrow at 4:35pm and the second race is at 19:30.