Chevrolets race would take a dramatic turn for the worse though on lap three when all three of their cars were involved in incidents that would eventually lead to retirements. Firstly, Alain Menu's collision with Jordi Gene into the first corner saw him limp into retirement, only to be followed just seconds later by Larini tipping Huff into a spin at turn three.
Although Larini's defence from Gene arguably prompted his rather desperate move on the Brit, it was still enough to force the Italian into retirement on the spot. Huff continued for a few more laps before his rear suspension eventually gave up, leaving him crabbing towards the pit lane and out of the race.
With the ensuing safety car period closing the field up, Farfus – who managed to muscle his way past Muller just before the caution period – set about placing pressure on Tarquini in third.
As the race progressed though, there was a distinct disparity in performance around the circuit, the 320si far more accomplished in the faster bends, only for the grunt of Tarquini's diesel engine to prove significantly faster in a straight line. Indeed, while it became clear in the second half of the race that the Yokohama tyres on the top three Leons was beginning to wane, their pace down the long home straight was keeping Farfus and Muller at arms length.
Nonetheless, Farfus eventually made his move stick at turn five, the Brazilian's better drive out of the corner, coupled with a little bit of bumper kissing, allowing him to move alongside and sweep ahead into the next bend. Sensing his opportunity, Muller dived inside the Italian at the next bend and moved into fourth.
Quickly latching onto the back of Rydell, Farfus always looked like he had the faster machine, but the experience of the Swede was enough to ensure that he would not even get a realistic shot at second place.
With Rydell doing a sterling job behind, Muller was left to cruise to victory, the Frenchman's only concern coming at the restart when his team-mate made a brief attempt at getting through.
![Augusto Farfus - BMW Team Germany BMW 320si [pic credit: FIA WTCC]](http://pix.crash.net/thumbs/411951.jpg)
