Title contender James Thompson (above) was in 12th place, the Briton using the 30-minute session in Macau today to try out a different set-up.

N.Technology Alfa Romeo’s weekend got off to a great start today in Macau with guest driver André Couto posting the third fastest time during official FIA World Touring Car Championship (WTCC) testing. The Macanese street circuit specialist was just 0.3secs from the fastest time with a best lap of 2:34.719, already proving his worth on his only 2007 WTCC appearance.

“It’s good to have an extra session to get used to the 156 again,” said Couto, who last drove the Alfa Romeo 156 for N.Technology in 2005. “The car has great pace and I found it easy to drive. We have two free practice sessions tomorrow before qualifying, which will be crucial. To be setting top times so early in the weekend is really encouraging and I’m sure we will do well come Sunday.”

Title contender James Thompson was in 12th place, using the 30-minute session to try out a different set-up. The double Valencia winner could not find a clear run and was frustrated in his attempts to set a competitive lap.

The outlook for tomorrow’s qualifying looks positive however, with Couto’s pace showing the Alfa Romeo 156’s speed for the WTCC’s final rounds. Due to timetable changes, Eurosport’s WTCC coverage will now begin Saturday 17 November with qualifying shown live on Eurosport International at 09:10 (CET). Race One will be shown on Sunday 18 November from 04:45 with Race Two starting at 06:00, both on Eurosport International and Asia Pacific.