02 Jul 2017 Race aims low, China aims high -First prototype race in China FRD LMP3 ends in shining light

On 2 July 2017, FRD LMP3 series completes its first ever race meeting at Zhejiang International Circuit. The event also included Touring Car and Formula Car races. It has won over the race fans and professionals in the industry. Many celebrities took part in the proceedings, bringing with them huge crowds, greatly adding influence and commercial value to the platform.

Professional racing, expert organization, wide reaching media, FRD LMP3 series succeeded at its role as a pioneer in Chinese prototype motorsports.

First prototype motorsport race series in China

Le Mans prototype race cars are based on single seater formula race cars. It then combines it with the supercar body shape to form this special race car category. The prototype race cars are powerful, handles well with a flowing body shape.

The successes of the 24 Hours of Le Mans and Intercontinental Le Mans Challenge prove that this race category has a place in motorsports. Due to historical reasons, China is only beginning to develop motorsports. There are a lot of voids to fill. The dream of racing at Le Mans or a Le Mans prototype car was something very far-reaching in the past.

FRD’s decision to introduce LMP3 races to China is based on the new LMP3 race cars to create China’s own high end motorsport platform. The brand new race cars, brand new races, brand new organization and complete service systems, make this race lively right at the beginning. We can see at the circuit in the first round that the professional race cars mated with commercial operations tied to entertainment celebrities is a formula for success. The large attendance testify to that. Sponsors and service providers also see a bright future for this event.

Star attractions

As a new race, FRD LMP3 series has attracted a lot of media attention even before a wheel has turned. The 4,000 race tickets were snatched up three days before race day. At the track on race day, there were still many race fans and star chasers trying to get in, even though they have no tickets. This scenario is only comparable to the first year of the Chinese F1 Grand Prix. As a newly established race event, FRD LMP3 has created history.

Apart from its professionalism, the many celebrities involved are also reasons for the massive crowd. Jackie Chan, Jimmy Lin and Aaron Kwok have all launched racing teams to support FRD LMP3 racing. Alex Fong and Jacqueline Zhuang actively take part in the Clio race. Jimmy Lin was at the circuit to show support for his team and for the series. During the rest period, Jimmy put on the race suit and drove his teams’ LMP3 race car around Zhejiang International Circuit, getting to understand the race car’s performance himself.

Jimmy Lin said, “Le Mans prototype is a very high end race. Introducing it to China and it will be China’s most high end race. FRD has vast experience organizing race events. We have a long history of working together. When I learnt that this race would be introduced to China, PTRS Racing decided straight away to be a part of it. We hope this race will become better and better, we also hope that PTRS Racing will achieve better results in the remaining races.”

The participation of celebrities brought a lot of popularity to FRD LMP3 series, enhancing its influence and credibility. But FRD chief executive Kenneth Ma said, “I would like to thank the celebrities for their participation. But our race is not just for entertainers, it is for real professionals. We can add entertainment elements in the race but this race is connected to the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Whether it is technical regulation or race organization, we have created this platform using the most professional attitude.”

Professional drivers promotion platform

FRD LMP3 carries a deep meaning for Chinese motorsports. But the ones who benefit most will be the young Chinese drivers. As the connecting platform to Le Mans, the race is on a very professional level.

In terms of race set up, FRD LMP3 as Le Mans specification professional race cars, they are a the top level of Chinese motorsports as soon as they are introduced. The two supporting races, Clio Cup China and Asian Formula Renault brought many young drivers and experienced drivers to the circuit as well. The three races together form a nice combination where drivers will be able to see the sports development in the country.

The participation of well known international drivers have also raised eye brows of the onlookers. Le Mans Series winner Mathias Beche, James Winslow, Yann Clairay and former Lotus F1 test driver Ricardo Teixeira join in, partnering Chinese drivers. Their skills and know hows are huge benefits for Chinese drivers. Many top Chinese talents such as Ma Qing-Hua, Martin Cao, Andy Yan, He Xiao-Le and Neric Wei are taking part, further confirming the status of the race series.

Kenneth Ma said, “We work hard to reduce the operating costs for drivers and teams, so that more good drivers can take part and gain more experiences.” It is not easy to bring costs down but it is important, the lower costs means Chinese motorsports and Chinese drivers can benefit. More drivers can join and eventually some of the Chinese drivers will be able to challenge the world. This is good for China.

“I hope more Chinese drivers can go overseas. Racing at international arenas such as Le Mans. We will help potential teams and drivers whatever way we can in terms of commercial sponsorships, in the process form a healthy industry. Eventually achieving the target of raising the level of Chinese motorsprots.” Kenneth Ma explained.

Excellent business platform

Giti Tyres (China) Investment Co Ltd General Manager Mr. Wang Mao-Cai said, “FRD LMP3 is a very good platform for tyre technology development as well as for brand promotion. The powerful LMP3 machines have very high requirement on tyres.  Since last year when the race was in the infancy, we have gathered a large group of technicians to work on the development of tyres. After a year’s work, we have gained the approval of the organizers, the teams and the drivers. The data we collected in this race will be beneficial for our product development. The experience gained from the race series will be transferred to the tyres we sell to the public.”

Wang Mao-Cai is very confident of the series future, “The top race series around the world are already controlled by the top companies in Europe. Giti has always wanted to take part and the FRD LMP3 series presents the perfect opportunity for us. This is a very good commercial platform as well. With Chinese motorsport improving all the time, Giti as product supplier will also expand its own brand image. Chinese race series using Chinese tyres. We will work from the bottom and work our way up. We will grow together and in the future we will enter the world arena.”

After 3 days excitement, there will be a short rest before the next rounds. FRD LMP3 has shown us the future. On 27-29 July, we will be racing again at Shanghai International Circuit. See you there!