Tarquini hopeful of WTCC return amid Lada talks

Tarquini, who turns 55 in March, was left on the sidelines when Lada decided to withdraw its works team from the WTCC at the end of 2016.

However, as team boss Viktor Shapovalov and WTCC promoter Eurosport Events are believed to have reached an agreement over having the Lada Vesta TC1 cars run as private entries, Tarquini is in the frame to continue competing in the machinery in 2017.

"To be honest, I am talking to anyone about my options for this season," Tarquini said. "Obviously I am talking to Lada as well. I left the team with a good relationship with Viktor and everyone else in the team.

"After all, I won Lada's last race in the championship, and they were happy with me both on the technical and the driving side, so I would be happy to return to the championship with them."

Tarquini has ruled out a switch to GT racing, insisting his focus is solely on touring cars.

"At my age I don't want to change too much. I am a touring car driver, I enjoy touring car races and I love what I do. It is my desire to stay in this world."

Although WTCC is the former world champion's main focus, he also says that TCR is a possibility for 2017, perhaps alongside any WTCC programme.

"Obviously my goal is to continue in the WTCC. It is home to me and it is my priority, there is no question about it.

"Of course, at this stage things are changing quickly, and I am open to other solutions such as TCR, which is the closest you can get to the WTCC these days."

"Perhaps doing one does not necessarily exclude the other. I could do the full WTCC season and take part in TCR after skipping a few races. I believe I will have my future sorted in early February. I need to have a clear picture by then, otherwise it will be too late."

Tarquini took the opportunity to reassure his fans he will surely remain an active touring car racer in 2017: "My fans can be certain, I'm sure I will be in a touring car in 2017, one way or another. I feel it's not time to stop yet. I am still very motivated and I'm sure I can deliver and have some more satisfaction in my career."

Pietro Casillo / TouringCarTimes