Alex Ley’s lap record was set just a few hours after his first ever laps around the iconic Belgian circuit, after taking part in the second practice session, after his co-driver Gabriele Covini drove the car during the morning’s session.

The two drivers are both making their debuts at the Spa-Francorchamps circuit this weekend, with Covini leading the way in the first practice session, while Ley dominated qualifying, leading throughout in the BRC Racing Team Hyundai Elantra N TCR.

“Considering my first laps around here were at 12 o’clock this afternoon, I wasn’t sure we’d have this kind of pace as it was a lot to learn with such a long lap,” said Ley.

“It felt good, it was full push. Eau Rouge was a little scary and the corner before the last chicane, but we managed to get pole position, so I’m super-happy. It’s probably one of the best tracks I’ve taken pole at. The main focus now will be to win the race tomorrow, though I think (Viktor) Andersson and (Jenson) Brickley are going to be very strong in the race.”