KUALA LUMPUR – Bearing the state flag on their cars, Johor Racing will be looking to start the GT World Challenge Asia season strong as the first race of the season kicks off tomorrow at the Sepang International Circuit (SIC).
Known as Triple Eight JMR, the team will be running two Mercedes-Benz AMG GT3 race cars – car number 99 driven by HH Crown Prince Tunku Abdul Rahman Sultan Ibrahim and Australian racer Nick Foster, while car number 888 driven by national racer Jazeman Jaafar and HH Crown Prince Tunku Abu Bakar Sultan Ibrahim.
Speaking to the media at the circuit, Tunku Abdul Rahman shared his excitement to be racing back at SIC with home fans cheering on the team.
“It has been two years since I had my debut here when I raced alongside Jazeman.
“It’s amazing to see how the team has grown from a single-car team to now having two cars,” he said.
Tunku said although the competition is high, he’s looking forward to achieving good results on home ground.
“It’s our home race, so we’re hoping for a good result. A podium finish will mean a lot to us and the fans.
“We need to keep our focus and get the best result for the team to move forward in the following rounds,” he added.
With his younger brother in the other car, he praised Tunku Abu Bakar’s progress in his racing career.
“Seeing him across the garage and being in a bigger racing league feels good, I am proud of him.
“He can learn so much from Jazeman, just like I did when I started out,” added Tunku.
Meanwhile, Jazeman echoed Tunku’s comments on the team’s growth.
“We started with one car and four mechanics. To see where the team is at now is something remarkable.
“The car is set up well for the conditions here in SIC, so we are hoping to score good points to give us the momentum for the next five rounds,” he said.
Jazeman also said he is looking forward to seeing Malaysian fans support a home team on the national circuit.
“To see the fans will be a positive mood booster, the spectators can be a good support for the drivers and the team,” he added.
The GT World Challenge Asia will kick off its first round at SIC tomorrow, followed by four races in Japan from July until September, and the final race in Mandalika, Indonesia in October. – The Vibes, May 20, 2022.
