WTCC profits from Argentine interest in Lopez title charge

The World Touring Car Championship has secured enhanced coverage of its next round in Argentina as local hero Jose Maria Lopez aims to build on his lead in the drivers’ championship, with four television channels signing deals to broadcast the event in the country.

Eurosport Events, promoter of the WTCC, has signed agreements with pay-television broadcaster Fox Sports, state-owned broadcaster Canal 7 and Canal 12, the regional channel of Córdoba.

The event at Termas de Río Hondo takes place from August 2-3, with Citroen driver Lopez currently holding a 39 point lead at the top of the drivers’ standings.

Fox Sports, Canal 7 and Canal 12 will broadcast the two races live on August 3. Fox Sports will broadcast Saturday’s qualifying session, while the Fox Sports 3 channel will televise practice sessions on Friday and Saturday.

François Ribeiro, Eurosport Events director of operations, said: “Touring cars mean so much in Argentina. It’s 57 years that Argentina is waiting for a racing world champion since (Juan Manuel) Fangio. After a successful first half of the season, expectations behind Pechito López are just tremendous in the entire region.”