Chennai, January 28: Three times British Touring Cars champion Matt Neal labelled the Madras International Circuit as unique in the sense that he has never driven on a race track like the one here and rated it seven on a scale of 10.
On a business trip to India, Neal, 56, visited the MIC on invitation today during the final round of the MRF MMSC fmsci Indian National Car Racing Championship 2022 and even drove a few laps in the Volkswagen Virtus of the Indian Touring Cars category.
Branding the track as “very technical and challenging” given its mix of tight and fast corners besides a couple of fast straights, Neal opined that the circuit is an excellent platform for those cutting their racing teeth.
“I have never driven on a track like this (the MIC) and it was quite enjoyable. I did about five-six laps. It has a character that is unique in its own way, like other tracks around the World. The track has a very fast corner at Turn-1, a few mid-speed corners and some tight sections like the ‘S’ leading up to the bridge. Yes, I would say the track is very technical and challenging,” he said.
The grass run-off areas add to the personality of the track, but you got to respect the limits,” said Neal, a six-times BTCC Independents champion between 1993-2006.
“To be honest, I would rate this track about seven on a scale of 10. You could have more variety with fast corners, but it has its own challenges and personality. Definitely in the top half. It is great for motorsport in India as well,” Neal said.
