Priaulx wins third Touring title

It is Priaulx's third World title in a row

Britain's Andy Priaulx sealed his third successive FIA World Touring Car title with victory in the final race of the year in Macau.

The man from Guernsey was only eighth in his BMW 320si in the first of the two nine-lap races.

But he produced an excellent drive in the second after starting from pole and his win also secured a hat-trick of manufacturers' titles for BMW.

"I never give up but I knew it needed something special," said Priaulx.

Interview: Andy Priaulx

"I have now been in a championship-winning position in the final race of the season for five years in a row.

"We all know you need a bit of luck to win a championship, but also you have to be there to take the luck and today was my lucky day."

Yvan Muller, tied with Priaulx in the championship race before Macau, led the opening race until his car's fuel pump failed on the final lap.

It was won by Alain Menu ahead of Gabriele Tarquini with Priaulx claiming a single point after fighting his way through to eighth place.

Another of Priaulx's title rivals, Augusto Farfus Jr, crahes into the barrier on the final lap when lying second and the Brazilian limped home 26th.

Neither Muller nor Farfus was able to take part in the second race and Priaulx eased home ahead of Nicola Larini and James Thompson to take the title by an 11-point margin.

"We won't have long to celebrate as soon we will be starting on work for 2008," Priaulx added.

"Each year it seems to get harder to win the championship, but I am determined to be back here in Macau in 2008 with a chance of taking the title [again].

"I know how to win championships - you need the right package and consistency, so I shall be doing everything in my power to make sure we get both."