Jeffrey Kruger launched his 2022 Global Touring Cars (GTC) SupaCup Championship campaign with two podium finishes, including a race victory, at Killarney International Raceway on March 4-5.
Kruger, a favourite for the 2022 title, showed strong pace throughout Friday’s practice sessions which he converted to a front row start after qualifying in second on Saturday morning.
The opening race would see the Universal HealthCare Team Red Racing driver take an early lead. However, an incident down the field saw the race stopped and the stricken car recovered. Kruger was forced to drive defensively with a three-car battle for the lead ensuing from the restart. While Kruger’s experience proved vital in the car and at the circuit, he could only fend off the challenge of one of the two drivers, finally crossing the finish as the runner-up.
Race 2 again saw an interrupted race following an early red flag due to an incident in the GTC Championship class ahead of the GTC SupaCup field. Kruger again found himself in a battle for the lead as the pack settled following a host of passes from the inverted top-six grid. On the final lap, the race leader erred, allowing several drivers through, including Kruger. Kruger worked hard for the win, taking the chequered flag 0.014 seconds ahead of the second-place finisher.
“We had two tough races, and I am extremely happy with both results,” said Kruger. “There was a bit of luck involved at the end, but this could easily have finished with me in third as well. Hard luck to Jason, no doubt we will have a few more good battles this year. And, well done to Leyton, really one of the most talented competitors who I had to compete against in my racing career. This will certainly be one of the most exciting seasons to come and because of Universal HealthCare coming on board again this year, I will be able to continue my title pursuit. So, thanks very much to them. I would also again like to thank Streamsure Combustion and The Design Hut for their backing going into the season opener.”
While Kruger will again compete in the GTC SupaCup on April 22-23, he focuses his attention on the 2022 Lotus Challenge Championship set for March 26 at Zwartkops Raceway.
Issued by Motorsport Fanatix on behalf of Jeffrey Kruger
