📷 SRO

Absolute Racing has confirmed it will enter a pair of Audi R8 LMS GT3s in Blancpain GT Series Asia this year.

The team ran a variety of cars on behalf of themselves and others last season, but most notably the OD Racing Audi driven by Aditya Patel and Mitch Gilbert who missed out on the overall Drivers’ title by just one point. J-Fly by Absolute Racing driver Alessio Picariello also starred en route to three pole positions in five outings.

While Absolute’s driver crews are yet to be confirmed, the team is expected to field both Pro/Am and Silver Cup pairings.

Team boss Fabien Fior believes last season’s championship experience and deep understanding of the Audi should offer an advantage this year.

“I’m delighted to be returning to Blancpain GT Series Asia in 2018 after missing out on last year’s title by the narrowest of margins,” he said. “We will do our utmost to climb one position higher, which – with the drivers we have – is a definite possibility.

“A year in the championship and our knowledge of the Audi R8 LMS GT3 is a real bonus. We understand the car, how it behaves on the Pirelli tyres and also what BoP to expect at each circuit. All of this is key to prevailing against opposition that is sure to be even tougher this season.”

Absolute Racing’s GT3 announcement is the first of several expected over the coming days.

Sepang in Malaysia hosts the opening round of this year’s 12-race schedule on April 14/15.