[1] James Thompson also rejoined the series, driving a Lada Granta WTCC for TMS Sport in the first of two outings in 2012.

[2] Yvan Muller set the pace in the first free practice session ahead of Lukoil Racing Team's Gabriele Tarquini and Chevrolet's Alain Menu.

[3] Tarquini went fastest in free practice two, heading the Chevrolets of Muller and Huff and the SEAT of Darryl O'Young.

[8] Muller led away from the rolling start but an incident behind caused Michelisz to run wide and the chain reaction as several cars recovered forced Tarquini and Tom Boardman into retirement.

Michelisz had recovered to sixth place but was overtaken by Coronel on the final lap, the ROAL driver having climbed from 21st on the grid.