Mike Rockenfeller finished in the top-20 in his NASCAR start at Watkins Glen – will the German climb into the cockpit again this season?
Mike Rockenfeller, who was allowed to climb into the 42 Legacy Chevrolet for two races due to Noah Gragson’s suspension, was convincing in his NASCAR comeback. At the race in Indianapolis, the two-time Le Mans winner and former DTM champion finished 24th. One week later, at the season race in Watkins Glen, “Rocky” was pleased with 19th place.
Although this was Rockenfeller’s best result of his NASCAR career so far, the German was unhappy. “Starting 21st and only finishing 19th is certainly not what we were hoping for or what I was hoping for,” said Rockenfeller.
The problem: “During the first pit stop, we had a problem with the jack on the left-hand side and lost a lot of time as a result. That probably cost us eight places, but that’s the way it is.” The 39-year-old has also had to deal with similar difficulties in the Indy race.
Continued NASCAR start possible
Nevertheless, Rockenfeller sees the progress he was able to make over the course of the two races. “The car was tricky to drive, but we certainly learned a lot again in the race,” said Rockenfeller, who was able to fight his way into the top-20 just before the end.
“The fact that I was able to make up three positions on the last lap was nice and earned me a place in the top 20, which is still my best result in the end. “
“Thanks to the team and everyone else for letting me sit in the cockpit and try to do my best,” says the former DTM driver. “I hope to come back.” That doesn’t seem entirely unlikely: there is a possibility that Rockenfeller will also be back at the wheel for the Cup race on 8 October at the Charlotte Roval.
“Better prepared for the race “
Then the German could gain more experience and progress. “You are more in tune with the team, you communicate better and understand each other better,” he hopes. “It just takes time. You compete against the best of the best here. One week you can be at the top and the next week you can be in the midfield or the back of the pack. It’s super close.”
“For me it was good to be able to do the two races back-to-back,” the versatile racer knows. “We made progress, not really good enough, but I think it makes me more prepared for the race. It just takes a little bit of time. I’m glad we’ve made progress – it’s good for the team and good for me. “
