Simon Evans has clinched the Championship after bouncing back to take the round win in the penultimate BNT NZ Touring Car round at Manfeild.

Jason Bargwanna, who was holding second place in the championship, slowed and stopped just before the finish line with one lap to go.

He was then pushed across the line by the car of fellow competitor Nick Ross.

Evans had to wait until officials decided that Bargwanna did not cross the finish line within the rules.

“Bargwanna didn’t cross the line under his own power,” Evans said before he was declared the champion.

Andre Heimgartner, buoyed by confirmation he has signed with V8 Supercars squad Lucas Dumbrell Motorsport this season, won the feature race from Evans.

However Evans prevented Heimgartner from winning a third consecutive round courtesy of his wins in the opening two races.

“Andre won both rounds at Ruapuna and Teretonga (and) he’s been driving really well. Big credit to my team for giving me a fast car this weekend,” Evans said.

Championship leader Brock Cooley won Class 2.

The seventh and final round is scheduled for Pukekohe from April 16-17.