Q&A with TCR Europe Champion Franco Girolami

TCR Europe champion! How do you feel, having risked so much to come to Europe and seeing that your efforts are bearing fruit?

Very happy! It's been almost 2 years since I came to Europe and before taking the decision, coming over was just a dream, let alone winning the title! However, that was the goal from day one. I worked and planned each race as if it were the last, since the budget was very tight and I didn't know if I would be able to even complete the first season.

After being runner-up in your first attempt, it made sense that the next goal was winning the title, but a change of team and maker brought an added challenge. How did you deal with that?

I knew it was a very big challenge, starting the season with a new team and car. But honestly, when the change came, I felt such a great motivation, which helped me get the most out of myself. And then, the pre-season testing we did with Comtoyou was also key to get to know each other and familiarise myself with the car.

In a series where it is unusual to score several victories or always be in the leading group, you were able to be very consistent throughout the year. What was the key to that consistency?

As I mentioned before, the key was that race-to-race planning. There were moments where I took risks and attacked my rivals, while in other races I set out to score points. All of that, without any retirements, helped us get to the last round without pressure and allowed us to enjoy it. After the Saturday race in Barcelona, where I became champion, the Sunday race I decided to enjoy it and face it as I like, taking risks, so I was able to go from P7 to P1 in a single lap. It was amazing!

This year you faced various world class drivers such as Tom Coronel (full time) and Frédéric Vervisch (in Barcelona). Do you feel prepared to take another step forward?

Totally. I feel I am at my best, at the right age and with enough experience to do it. Of course, that was my objective from the start, I always knew and I work hard every day to improve and be at the best level I can be when the chance comes.

Obviously, being TCR Europe champion is a milestone in your career and will surely help you take that step forward. Any clear plans, going forward?

While we all know WTCR disappears next year, my goal is being part of the TCR WORLD TOUR, a series born in 2023 to put together the best drivers in the world. Right now, I don't have anything confirmed. There have been some talks for TCR and GT racing, but nothing concrete yet. The next few weeks will be very important regarding my future and making a decision. Being TCR Europe champion is very important, especially because of the high driver level, but I think it's important to keep working hard and planning for the future. In my case, that's what I'm doing, and I hope to have my future clearly defined as soon as possible.