Jaxon Evans will start on the front row for the Porsche Supercup season opener in Monaco.
The Kiwi was a little over a tenth behind polesitter Larry ten Voorde in qualifying, earning himself a second place start.
Ten Voorde was pushing to improve on his final lap but spun at the penultimate corner.
The consequent yellow flag also prevented anyone else from setting a quick lap at the end of the session.
Evans is racing with French squad Pierre Martinet by Almeras this season – his third different team in as many years.
This year also marks the debut weekend of the new Porsche 911 GT3 Cup car, which has more downforce and aerodynamic grip compared to its predecessor.
“Through the tunnel I can go full throttle. That wasn’t possible with the previous 911 GT3 Cup,” said ten Voorde.
Behind Evans is the Kiwi’s teammate Dorian Boccolacci.
Championship protagonist Dylan Pereira had a troubled session after colliding with the wall at the Swimming Pool mere minutes into the session.
He will start 27th in a race that could have big championship implications given how few races there are this season.
Evans has only raced at Monaco once in his Supercup career, finishing ninth in 2019.
Sunday’s race is scheduled to start at 8.30 pm NZT.