Filippi confirms WTCC future

Filippi, who became the youngest driver to start on pole position for a WTCC race when he lined up out in front for the second race in Qatar last November aged 20 years and nine months, has recruited four-time World Touring Car champion Yvan Muller as his coach.

As well as chasing a fifth WTCC title with Citroën, Muller will provide crucial knowledge and advice to Filippi during the 12-event, 24-race season.

“John has already shown great things despite his young age,” said Muller. “Nonetheless, I am convinced that he is only at the beginning of his potential. With my team we will be at his side to guide him so he can become an essential player in the championship already this year.”

Corsican Filippi, who will drive for the Spanish Campos Racing team for a third season in the WTCC, said: “I am very happy to continue our common story. My objective is to establish my legitimacy in this championship with my last performances in mind. I am very happy to continue working with the engineers and mechanics from the Campos team. I am very confident for this season and I hope that I can get some great results.”

Filippi’s extended agreement with main sponsor OSCARO continues a long-running partnership that began when Filippi was racing karts.

“I am very happy to count John once more among our ambassadors,” said OSCARO CEO Pierre-Noel Luiggi. “Since all these years he has not stopped progressing and climbing the ladder of racing. I am persuaded that this year he will be going to the next level and prove his talent to the entire world.”

François Ribeiro, Head of Eurosport Events, the WTCC promoter, said: “John has shown lots of potential since joining the WTCC and we look forward to watching him make further progress in 2016. With OSCARO’s support and Yvan Muller’s guidance, John has a great opportunity.”