Andy Priaulx left his best until last as two podium finishes in the final round of the World Touring Car Championship marked his best race weekend of the season.

On the day that he passes his WTCC title crown to Yvan Muller, Priaulx showed why he is a triple champion as he harried Alain Menu all the way to the finish line in the first race from a season's best front-row starting position.

Lifting him well into contention for third position in the overall standings, Priaulx set about making headway in the second race, although it would take a frantic final couple of laps to promote him up to his eventual third position.

While that wouldn't be enough to wouldn't edge Rob Huff for the role of top British driver overall, Priaulx at least had the honour of being BMW's best representative for the fourth straight season, much to his delight.

“The most important thing is to win the championship, and that is what everybody is aiming for, but I am proud to be the best BMW driver again,” he said. “We have now all got to fight for the title next year. All these guys here are capable of winning it and it is going to be another tough season.”

Priaulx, who has won the ETCC/WTCC for the past four seasons, remained gracious in defeat too, praising long-time rival Muller for wrapping up the title this weekend.

“It is an honour to give the championship to a quality driver, and both Yvan and Gabriele are such drivers. Gabriele gave me his title in 2004 and I now hand it to Yvan.”