Long’s PWC season rescued by Wright Motorsports

Star Porsche GT3 Cup team Wright Motorsports will field a GT-class Porsche 911 GT3 R for Patrick Long in the 13 remaining races on the 2016 Pirelli World Challenge schedule.

Long has a long-time working relationship with Wright Motorsports and its owner, John Wright, as well as Michael Schein, a rookie who drives a for Wright in the GTA class.

"This is a rare chance to take a very difficult situation and quickly turn it around," said Long who currently lies fifth in the championship. "I'm grateful for the opportunity that John and Michael have given me.

“It's been humbling, and I'm elated to be able to continue in the series. I've worked with John in many different programs over the years, and we've had a lot of success together."

Wright, whose team is reigning and three-time GT3 Cup champion, commented: "It's unfortunate how Patrick's program with us came together because we don't want to capitalize on another team's misfortunes.

“But we've worked with him many times in the past, we know he'll be a great benefit to our team, and we're excited to have him on board.

"I also want to thank Michael Schein for committing to campaign a Porsche GT3 R in Pirelli World Challenge this year," Wright added. "That provided the infrastructure we needed to add Patrick's car to our PWC program. Michael and Patrick have also worked together in the past, and they have a great working relationship as well."

Long is currently fifth in the GT driver point standings. He won the first race of the year at Circuit of the Americas in March, and was also on the podium in round five at Long Beach, Calif. in April.

The next PWC event is May 19-22 at Canadian Tire Motorsport Park in Bowmanville, Ontario.