Porsche racer tips regional GT3 drivers for glory

Long firmly believes the Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge Middle East is the perfect platform to accelerate the careers of local drivers into the grid of the most competitive of all endurances races.

Dubai — Motorsport in the Middle East has received a timely boost ahead of this weekend’s 24 Hours of Le Mans, following comments by celebrated Porsche driver Patrick Long on a recent visit to the region.

Long, a veteran Porsche 911 RSR driver and Porsche works driver of 13 years, firmly believes the Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge Middle East is the perfect platform to accelerate the careers of local drivers into the grid of the most competitive of all endurances races.

The American racer, who has claimed two class victories at the legendary French race, says technology and innovation has moved the industry forward so much that regional drivers could be competing on the world stage after just three years of racing and development, if the talent and hunger for success is there.

It is exciting news for Skydive Dubai Falcons racers Shaikh Hasher Al Maktoum and Saeed Al Mehairi. After entering the Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge racing series in Season 5 the duo have grown through the ranks in just a year, to cement their status as two of the region’s most exciting drivers competing for one of the strongest teams, all gained through hard work in the local Porsche series.

Speaking on the suggestion that they could compete at Le Mans in the future, Saeed Al Mehairi said: “We would be very honest in saying that the Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge is the top racing series in the region. For aspiring racers it’s gives the only real opportunity to learn the skills required for the highest levels of competition.”