Priaulx has won the FIA Touring Car Championship three times

Guernsey's Andy Priaulx is out of the FIA World Touring Car Championship running after having points docked for using a sequential gearbox.

Priaulx used the gearbox in the last two rounds in Japan, for which his results have now been excluded.

The Sarnian has dropped to third in the standings, 61 points behind leader Yvan Muller with just one round remaining.

Priaulx told BBC Guernsey: "I've now got to convert my energy to a positive and finish the season on a high."

Priaulx and Team BMW were punished for using the sequential gearbox by the FIA International Court of Appeal.

The FIA had previously said the gearboxes could be used, but in response to an appeal by Team Chevrolet that decision was overturned.

He added: "It's a disappointing way to come to Macau (China) for the season's final race.

"I normally come here either fighting for the title or just hoping to enjoy the race.

"I'm going to fight for second place because now I've slipped back to third with the risk of slipping back to fourth."

With six race wins behind him already this season, Priaulx is confident he can add to that tally and end the year on a high.

He said: "Anything can happen here - this place is a casino.

"I've said many times before that if you can keep in both races and fight hard for good strong positions then you can come away with great points."

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