Twenty-two-year-old Daniel Miranda took the spotlight at the Sepang International Circuit after finishing second overall at the 2019 TCR Asia Series held in Sepang, Malaysia.
The Cebuano superstar initially struggled with setup and electrical issues on the #20 Hyundai i30 N TCR of Eurasia Motorsport. This prevented him from Qualifying higher than P5 in QTT1 and P9 in QTT2 out of a 15-car grid.
This setback, however, didn’t stop Miranda from charging to the front of the pack in Race 1. A lightning quick start allowed him to move up from P9 up to P6 on the opening lap. He then had to defend his position for 11 grueling laps, which included a Safety Car period, and ensured that he safely crossed the finish line with sixth overall and second out of the Asian drivers.
Everything then came together for Miranda and Eurasia Motorsport in Race 2 last Sunday. Now with his car setup sorted and a front row start, Miranda took the lead on the run to the first turn. He then opened an advantage in the opening laps until Diego Moran caught up and forced his way through on lap 5. Miranda put pressure on the Ecuadorian driver, but didn’t get the opportunity to overtake before the chequered flag dropped.
“This is my first race in TCR Series Asia together with Eurasia and it has been quite a learning experience so far. I’m very happy with our podium finish on my debut and definitely looking forward to the next round at Zhuhai. We’re hoping to land on the podium again and score points for the championship. Thank you Cebuana Lhuillier for the support and everyone in the team and the family,” says Miranda.
The Philippine Team is preparing for the next event on May 3 to 5 at the Zhuhai International Circuit in China.