Jaber back on the podium

Team Bahrain’s Jaber Al Khalifa was back on the podium in the Bronze category after finishing third in the Race 2 of Round 4 of the Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge Middle East at Dubai Autodrome, while a delighted Jeffrey Schmidt of Al Nabooda Racing took victory and was joined on the podium by Qatar-based Charlie Frijns and the winner of the previous day’s Race 1, Ryan Cullen, in third.

The overall result comes as welcome relief for championship leader Schmidt and Al Nabooda Racing following Race 1 where he was forced to retire following a collision with his team mate Zaid Ashkanani.

Victory was all but essential for the UAE resident and starting from second on the grid, Schmidt was quick to take ownership of pole position as he continues his hunt for the Season 7 championship title in his debut season.

Jaber’s result another example of exceptional commitment and consistency, both of which he has shown in abundance throughout the season and remains top of the Bronze standings.

Speaking after the race, Jaber said, “The race was very good, in qualifying I managed to get my first ever lap time of 2.04 which was 2 seconds faster than my qualifying time from yesterday so this shows how I am progressing. The track was good and I feel like I have learnt the track well over the last two days, which is beneficial with the next round being here as well. “I’m more consistent and getting quicker and quicker and looking forward to the next race!”

Initially billed as the glorious homecoming of the Al Nabooda Racing team, Race 1 of Round 4 threw the Driver’s Championship wide open with Cullen stealing a surprise victory over Schmidt who was forced to retire. 

The result saw Cullen close the championship race down to just one point with Schmidt out to prove a point in Race 2.

Schmidt (175 points) leads the championship ahead of Irishman Cullen (170) second with Kuwaiti starlet Zaid Ashkanani (161) third. The fifth round of races of the region’s most professional racing series takes place on February 19 at the Dubai Autodrome.