As the year 2023 unfolded, it was a busy and active season for me as a GT driver. I kicked off the year participating in endurance racing and the Asian Le Mans Series, all while preparing for my Porsche campaign in the Carrera Cup Middle East. The preparation paid off as we secured a win in every race we entered, setting the stage for a strong season. With high expectations for the European season, I had undergone extensive testing and physical preparation, ready to tackle the Porsche Supercup with vigor.
My debut in the Carrera Cup Deutschland at Spa was an exhilarating experience. Joining the Allied Racing team was a significant undertaking, but we quickly made our mark by securing pole position in the wet conditions. We followed it up with a race win, proving that our winter preparations were paying off. Throughout the season in Germany, we consistently scored podium finishes, with fourth or fifth-place finishes when not on the podium. Unfortunately, a few incidents where we had contact from behind hindered our chances of claiming victory. However, our strong performances caught the attention of everyone and set the stage for an exciting season.
The anticipation for the Imola weekend in the Porsche Supercup was high, but due to unforeseen circumstances, the event was canceled. However, we swiftly moved on to the Supercup in Monaco, which turned out to be one of the highlights of my career. Winning in Monaco, especially in such a fiercely competitive one-make series, was a moment of immense pride. The victory not only showcased our skills but also drew significant attention from the motorsport community. The only downside was rescheduling my flight home to attend the celebratory dinner with Prince Albert. Despite the logistical challenge of finding a suit in a short time, I managed to rise to the occasion and enjoyed a memorable evening celebrating the achievement.
While the ultimate goal was to secure the Porsche Supercup title, our focus remained on consistently performing at a high level. With an impressive three wins at prestigious tracks like Monaco, the Hungaroring, and Monza, we made our mark in the motorsport world. The attention from key figures in motorsport was invaluable, even if we were not in the championship battle due to two unfortunate DNFs that were out of my control. The Porsche Supercup is a unique one-make series, requiring a deep understanding of the car and its nuances. Ensuring maximum mileage and receiving the right support from the team was crucial in gaining an advantage over other drivers. The top 15 drivers in the Supercup all followed this approach, and deviating from it would put one at a disadvantage before even reaching the start line.
A last-minute invitation to compete at Bathurst with EMA Motorsport was a dream come true for me. Racing at Bathurst had always been on my wishlist, and not only did I get to drive the circuit, but I also clinched three victories in three races, along with setting the lap record. It was a significant accomplishment to win at both Monaco and Bathurst in the same season, further fueling my motivation and determination for the future.
As the successful 2023 season comes to an end, the future remains bright and filled with possibilities. The attention garnered from key individuals in the motorsport industry presents exciting options for the following year. The dream of racing with Porsche and continuing the success I started my GT journey with is still alive. While nothing has been finalized for 2024, I am eager to explore the opportunities that lie ahead. As a Porsche factory driver, I am dedicated to working hard and making the most of each season. The support and guidance received through the BRDC SuperStars program have been invaluable, providing insights from successful drivers who have been part of factory teams. Their advice enables me to approach driving challenges and off-track matters with a well-rounded perspective.
The journey of a successful GT driver is filled with challenges and triumphs. Each season presents new opportunities and demands continuous growth and improvement. With a season highlighted by remarkable victories at prestigious tracks, my motivation to excel remains unwavering. The path forward may still be uncertain, but the determination to race with Porsche and achieve more success is stronger than ever. The journey continues, and exciting chapters lie ahead in my pursuit of greatness in the world of GT racing.
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