The stage is set for the closest finish to the team title in the history of the Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge Middle East when the series concludes as part of Formula One’s Bahrain Grand Prix weekend at the Sakhir International Circuit.
After five rounds and 10 races across Bahrain, Qatar and the UAE, which started on November 2014, only 10 points separate Al Nabooda Racing and Skydive Dubai Falcons.
The reigning team champions are Clemens Schmid and Ahmad Al Harthy of Al Nabooda Racing, who enter the final two races leading the standings on 351 points. Skydive Dubai Falcons have secured 341 points through Saeed Al Mehairi and Sheikh Maktoum Hasher Al Maktoum.
A race win is worth 25 points, with 21 for second and 19 for third.
“The team title has been an incredible fight with every qualifying, lap and podium position counting,” series organiser Walter Lecher said.
“So it’s been wonderful to watch the intense rivalry and mutual respect unfold. Al Nabooda Racing only know victory in the team championship. They have all the experience of Schmid and Al Harthy but will also face the pressure of expectation, and two gifted drivers from Skydive Dubai Falcons who are growing in confidence.”.”
Hadi Al Bloushi, team manager of Skydive Dubai Falcons, hopes his team can come good on their pre-season target,
“When we first started out in Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge Middle East our goal was to win the team category,” he said.
“The fact that we now have the opportunity to achieve that goal as part of a Formula One weekend is very special. It’s exactly why we’re in motorsport. I know hearts will be pounding and the adrenalin will be flowing.”
This season’s team championship has been dominated by Al Nabooda Racing and Skydive Dubai Falcons but the final position on the podium is likely to be filled by either Kuwait’s BuZiad GT (266 points) or Classic Arabia Racing (258 points) of Saudi Arabia.
BuZiad GT driver Zaid Ashkanani also is the only man who can catch Schmid in the individual standings. He trails the Austrian by 12 points with a maximum 50 on offer.
The opening race of the final round is scheduled for 3.30pm UAE time on Saturday. The second race will be held at 2.30pm on Sunday.
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