South Africa’s Sheldon van der Linde won both races on the opening weekend of the 2016 Audi Sport TT Cup at the Hockenheimring.
The 16-year-old rookie in the one-make cup faced challenges from international stars (such as Scott Speed and Andreas Mikkelsen) who were on the grid as guest entrants, but ended the weekend atop the standings.
“Sheldon van der Linde impressively showed his talent here at Hockenheim,” said Philipp Mondelaers, Project Leader Audi Sport TT Cup.
“But the other budding drivers contributed their share as well to our superb beginning of the second season.”
Trailing Van der Linde, a second rookie by the name of Nicklas Nielsen (Denmark) finished on the podium that was completed by Christoph Hofbauer (Germany).
“We saw fascinating but, above all, very balanced motorsport,” says Chris Reinke, Head of Audi Sport customer racing.
“Our positive impressions of the tests have been fully confirmed and, as the season progresses, I continue to expect close races and plenty of variety on the podium.”
After the first of seven race weekends in the Audi Sport TT Cup, Van der Linde has a tally of 50 points, leading with a 15-point advantage over Dennis Marschall, Hofbauer and Joonas Lappalainen (both on 34 points).
Round two of the Audi Sport TT Cup will be held as part of the programme for the 24-hour race at the Nürburgring from May 26 to 28.
