Championship leader Shihab Al Faheem has warned his rivals they’re in for a “tough battle” when the TRD 86 Cup resumes on Saturday.
The Emirati shone during October’s opening round at Yas Marina Circuit, finishing second in Race One before he went one better, crossing the chequered flag first in Race Two. It’s those performances that see him top the standings with 38 points, eight clear of compatriot Mohammed Abdul Ghaffer and Frenchman Gregory Pain ahead of the second round in the capital.
Al Faheem was pleased by his own displays and while he’s not had the best preparations due to work commitments, he is confident of excelling over the two races.
“There are strong drivers in this competition and I did extremely well in the first round,” he said. “But I can’t focus too much on that because that was a long time ago. It’s all about now. Although I’ve not had as much track time as I could possibly have due to my full-time job, I’m confident I can do well. For sure, it will be a tough battle between the drivers. “I know it will be hard as this competition is never easy. I hope I can carry on from the first round.”
One man he will be facing on the grid is Ahmed Al Melaihi. Having fallen short in his quest of sealing the title last season by finishing runner-up, the Emirati is eager to go one further in this campaign. He was left with mixed emotions claiming a podium finish with third spot in Race One. He was unable to build on that start, finishing ninth in Race Two.
The 28-year-old goes into Saturday’s round in sixth position in the standings, having accumulated 18 points. With five more rounds remaining, the Emirati knows he cannot afford to have any more bad days and believes Al Faheem and reigning champion Karim Al Azhari will be tough to beat.
“Shihab Al Faheem had a fantastic round last time and he looked strong so he’s definitely one of the guys I’ll need to get in front of,” he said. “Also Karim Al Azhari is the defending champion and although he didn’t do well in the last race (finished eighth), he still has all the best qualities, so he’ll definitely be a dangerous opponent.”
Despite highlighting those two drivers as serious threats, Al Melaihi is not taking any of the field lightly.
“During the last round, there were some really good performances by the drivers and it was really tough out there. I have to remain focused and concentrate and drive strongly,” he said.
The TRD 86 Cup is part of Yas Racing Series and tickets can be bought at the gates at Yas Marina Circuit.
