Aussie TCR driver Ben Bargwanna earned the TCR Europe Rookie Trophy on the weekend in Portugal.
The Burson Auto Parts sponsored driver finished 12th overall in his debut, taking the podium with Dutch TCR legend and Portimao circuit winner Tom Coronel.
SEE ALSO: TAFE Queensland technicians get free BEVs training
Ben started in 19th but secured 14th early on before battling his way one more spot by race’s end.
He was bumped up a further spot after a post-race penalty to another driver.
“What a race!,” he said.
“It’s been incredible and I can’t thank Team Clairet Sport enough.
“I came home top rookie and 12th outright from 19th on the grid. I’m so stoked, over the moon – I can’t stop smiling.
“It’s been a whirlwind of emotions this weekend, but it has been one of the best of my life.
“I’m so happy, I can’t thank the Clairets, my parents and Burson Auto Parts and my sponsor group enough, it’s been incredible and I’m seriously so pleased.
“I’m covered in champagne, I’ve got a trophy and it’s not what I expected to be coming home with, but I’m so happy.”
Ben’s TCR season will continue on Phillip Island May 14 for the Supercheap Auto TCR Australia Series. He’ll then head back to Europe for round two of the TCR World Tour in Belgium.