Patel to compete in Blancpain GT Series Asia in 2017

Patel will drive an Audi R8 LMS for the Malaysian outfit, which was founded in 2014 and has since competed successfully in GT Asia and Asian Le Mans series.

Blancpain GT Series Asia is a logical step for Patel, who has been racing in the one-make Audi R8 LMS Cup for the last few years.

He finished sixth in the championship last year and is well versed with the race-spec version of the R8 LMS.

The Chennai-born driver will team up with Mitch Gilbert , who competed in European F3 and F1-supporting GP3 series before making a full-time switch to sportscar racing.

“I would like to thank Audi India for giving me this opportunity and for their unwavering support over the past five years,” Patel said. “The Blancpain GT Series is one of the world’s premier racing championships and I am really looking forward to being a part of it.

“My teammate, Mitch Gilbert, has proved his speed in various championships in the past as well. While the competition will be tough, I have no doubt that together, we will achieve great results this year,“ said Aditya Patel.

Mr. Rahil Ansari, Head, Audi India added: “Aditya has shown remarkable performances in previous years and we wish him a great racing season at Blancpain GT Series Asia this year with the indomitable Audi R8 LMS."

“We are confident that with successful exploits of Aditya and other Indian racing talents, motorsports will get a tremendous boost in India as well.”

The first season of Blancpain GT Series Asia begins at Malaysia’s Sepang Circuit next weekend. The championship comprises of five rounds, with the season concluding in Zhejiang, China on the weekend of October 21/22.