As the Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge Middle East heads to Abu Dhabi for its fourth round on Friday, the focus will be on Ryan Cullen and Charlie Frijns at the top of the Drivers’ Championship.
However, the duo will have to share the spotlight with an Arab teenage sensation who is turning heads this season.
Omani driver Al Faisal Al Zubair has taken the championship by storm in his debut year. The 18-year-old driver has been fearless on the track and will be looking to continue his impressive form at Yas Marina Circuit.
This season is the first time Al Zubair is racing a Porsche GT3 Cup car but he has been more than competitive out on the circuit, finishing in second and seventh place over two races at the Dubai Autodrome last month.
His runner-up spot in the first race was unprecedented, while his seventh place finish in the second was testament to the teenager’s fighting spirit after dropping from third spot to 11th.
“Overall, I think we proved this weekend that we can run with the top guys. It didn’t go how I wanted it to but they know we have the pace and the capability so we’ll be better in Abu Dhabi,” he said after the third round concluded.
Al Zubair currently occupies an impressive fifth place in the overall standings but has his sights set on winning the Silver Class and Rookie Championship, both of which he leads.
“Winning Silver and winning the Rookie class for the championship and then hopefully more podiums in the overalls and maybe even a race win this season.”
Al Zubair however, remains unperturbed by the buzz around him.
“I think being a young driver having his first season in GTs definitely helps. We’re getting better and better so that’s helping and I’m sure the other drivers are conscious of that so it’s always a good thing.”
Al Zubair began karting in 2014 before taking to the Formula 4 circuit a year later. He then competed in Formula 3 last year but claims he’s most comfortable in GT.
“My personal preference is GT rather than single-seater. I think it suits my driving more.”
Walter Lechner is the manager and organiser of the Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge Middle East and is full of praise for the young talent.
“Al Faisal Al Zubair is definitely an outstanding talent. We’re very surprised. Everyday we’re very surprised,” the motorsport legend said.
“Considering it’s his first season in these kind of cars and his age is only 18 and also the fact that he still has a lot to learn, I would say the basics are very good.”
Championship contender Frijns has also been equally impressed with Al Zubair.
“To have so little experience and finish the race in the way he did, I have all the respect for him. It’s very nice that he’s competitive in the Silver class,” Frijns said of the Omani.
The young Arab driver admits he’s even surprised himself but rather than bask in the glory of his achievements, he’s eager to accomplish even more.
“To be honest, I knew I’d be quick but I didn’t think I’d be this quick. Two overall podiums and I think a winning a race in the championship is realistic. I think I’m exceeding what I thought and exceeding what everyone else thought as well.”
When asked what was it that drew him to racing in the first place, Al Zubair delivered a response befitting of a born racer.
“I like the speed.”
