Indian GT Driver, Aditya Patel, ended his Audi R8 LMS Cup season with a 2nd place finish here at the Shanghai international circuit today.
The JK Racing and Audi India backed driver set good pace in practice but unfortunately was unable to set a time in qualifying due to a mechanical failure. After starting from the back in race 1, Patel moved up to 8th place and set a lap time that would see him start 3rd for race two.
Patel got off to a flying start and began to tussle straight away with race leader, Martin Rump. A safety car period during the race was at Patel’s disadvantage as Rump, who was carrying a weight penalty had the opportunity to cool his tyres down. Once the safety car was in, the battle resumed and Aditya pushed Rump all the way to the finish.
Behind them, there was drama between Alex Yoong and Alessio Picariello for the championship. Contact between the two drivers ended Alex Yoong’s race and stewards are investigating the incident.
“It was pretty much a repeat of last year, as far as this weekend was concerned. An issue in qualifying meant I had to start last in race one, but I knew I had the pace to qualify well for race 2. The fight with Rump was good, but I know I had the pace in the car to win. Yes, that aspect is disappointing but it’s nice to end a tough season with a fighting podium. I’d like to thank JK Tyres, Audi India and Go-Pro for their support this year and hope to be back stronger next year!”, said Aditya after the race.
