McNish heads for Mosport on a triple mission

The Scotsman and co-driver Dindo Capello aim to take their diesel-powered Audi to a seventh class win of the season at Mosport in Canada – a victory that would tighten their grip on a successful title defence and could also clinch the Manufacturers’ and Teams championships.

McNish, 37, returns to the historic Mosport track near Toronto for the 165-minute race with fond memories.

“I’m heading to Mosport with positive thoughts and tremendous memories of the Canadian track,” confirmed Dumfries-born Allan. “Dindo and I won there in 2000 in the closest ever ALMS finish while in the corresponding race there last year, we won the race and tied up the championship title.”

The 2.5 mile, 10-corner Mosport Park track is the second fastest on the 12-race ALMS schedule – the venue for the Formula One Canadian Grand Prix between 1967-77.

Allan added: “The circuit and facilities are steeped in history – it’s a bit like stepping back in time – and it’s an extremely fast and flowing circuit. Dindo and I will be under pressure from the other Audi because we now have a 22-point lead over them and with just three races remaining after Mosport, they need to start out-scoring us.

“But once again, the Porsches and possibly the Acuras, will be very fast and are likely to be a thorn in our side despite Mosport suiting our diesel Audi. It’s going to be a tough fight.”

The ninth round of the American Le Mans Series starts at 20.04 (BST) on Sunday with a 20-minute qualifying session that sees McNish bidding for a second consecutive pole start, staged the previous day (SAT) at 20.10 (BST).