Dubai: The Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge Middle East is the perfect platform for local drivers to get into Le Mans, according to veteran Porsche driver Patrick Long.
Speaking ahead of this weekend’s 83rd edition of the world’s toughest endurance race, the American double Le Mans class winner, said: “For drivers, the local Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge Middle East is the perfect pathway to gain experience in competitive racing.
“For decades, one-make Porsche series around the world, including all the Carrera Cups, have been a testing ground for talent and have produced the foundation for so many of the world’s leading endurance teams.
“That’s where drivers get spotted and can try to climb the ladder towards the big international series, as Porsche definitely promotes from within.
“When I look around the pit on a World Endurance Championship weekend, so many of the drivers racing in Porsche teams, as well as teams of other manufacturers, have graduated through the ranks of Porsche series around the world.
“In the Middle East, the successful names that have emerged, like Abdul Aziz Al Faisal (Champion season one and three) and Zaid Ashkanani (Season five champion, season six runner-up), can all be traced back to starting their careers in the GT3 Cup Challenge Middle East which must be encouraging to others.”
