Bates Battles Hot Conditions in Suzuka Practice

Soaring temperatures will test the physical capabilities of the Audi R8 LMS Cup drivers at Suzuka this weekend, according to Tony Bates after practice today.

Bates was fifth fastest in both 45-minute sessions, but said there is more to come in qualifying tomorrow.

“The conditions were very demanding today, it was almost like doing an endurance race even though it was only practice,” Bates said.

“I gained more than three seconds between Practice 1 and Practice 2 though, so I was happy with the progress we made today.

“We elected to stay on old tyres for both sessions, where a lot of other drivers used greens, so we feel we’ll be among the front-runners once we go to new tyres for qualifying tomorrow.

“I’m loving the track, it’s absolutely awesome; there’s a lot more to come from the car and driver tomorrow.

Two qualifying sessions will be held tomorrow at 2:10pm and 2:35pm (Australian Eastern Time), with the 30 minute race at 6:25pm. Live streaming will be available HERE.