Drivers geared up for Porsche GT3 Cup return to Abu Dhabi

Sport360 staff 16:15 11/01/2016
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  • Schmidt (l) has been superb so far.

    A short winter break comes to an end in two weeks’ time as Round 3 of the Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge Middle East returns to the UAE capital on Friday, January 22.

    Drivers across the Middle East will return to the track in Abu Dhabi at the Yas Marina Circuit for the first time in over three years with two races.

    For some drivers the break since Round 2 at Saudi Arabia’s Al Reem Circuit in early December will have been a welcomed chance to reflect and recover from a grueling opening to Season 7.

    For others such as Jeffrey Schmidt, who heads the overall championship by twelve points from two consecutive, it is all about maintaining form as the action hits Abu Dhabi.

    “I couldn’t have asked for a better way to wrap up 2015 with the win in Saudi Arabia,” said Schmidt.

    “I’m pleased with my performances so far, but I remain focused on what is a big year ahead.

    “To open another year of racing in Abu Dhabi is just perfect, and I hope that the excellent conditions at Yas Marina Circuit can help me unleash the best in me.”

    For racing fans in the UAE, the championship’s return to the capital will serve as a timely reminder of the country’s domination so far this season with Jeffrey Schmidt’s Al Nabooda Racing Team occupying two of the three top spots.

    The team’s signing of Kuwaiti star Zaid Ashkanani ahead of the campaign has truly paid dividends for the UAE outfit so far with Ashkanani sitting third in the standings.

    “It’s been a great experience for me and I really enjoy being part of the team. To work in tandem with a talented teammate like Jeffrey is a privilege, and together we’re always looking to push each other to go as fast as we can,” said Ashkanani. “Thankfully the results have been excellent, and now I can’t wait to race in Abu Dhabi and give our fans something more to cheer about next weekend.”

    Al Nabooda Racing sit comfortably atop of the team standings, no doubt helped by the dynamic duo’s consistent performances in Bahrain and Saudi so far. However, with the new series only midway through, anything can still happen – especially at the notoriously challenging Yas Marina Circuit.

    Reigning champions Dubai Skydive Falcons, second in the team standings, is fronted by talisman Sheikh Hasher Al Maktoum who will be aiming to recapture his best form in what will be the first of three consecutive rounds on home soil. Currently sitting in 4th place ahead of fellow Emirati teammate Saeed Al Mehairi, he is excited to be back in Abu Dhabi.

    “Both myself and the team have got fond memories from Yas Marina Circuit, and we feel confident that we can show our local fans just how committed we are to retaining the title,” said Al Mehairi.

    “It’s been a mixed start to the series so far, but now we’re back in the UAE and ready to start the new year on a high.”

    The one-make series consists of 12 races between November 2015 and March 2016, where it now heads to the UAE for three rounds in a row to kick start the New Year across January and February, closely followed by the return to Bahrain in early March which is set to be a thrilling end to series 7.

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