Abu Dhabi: A short winter break has proved only to heighten interest, increase driver focus and build anticipation as the region’s leading race series speeds towards a long-awaited return to the UAE’s capital for Round 3 of the Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge Middle East.

In two weeks, the Middle East’s most competitive drivers will return to the track in Abu Dhabi at the Yas Marina Circuit for the first time in more thanthree years, with two races scheduled for January 22.

For some drivers the break since Round 2 at Saudi Arabia’s Al Reem Circuit in early December will have been a welcome chance to reflect and recover from a grueling opening to Season 7. For others such as Jeffrey Schmidt, who heads the overall championship by twelve points from his two consecutive round wins, it is all about maintaining that invincible form as the action hits Abu Dhabi next weekend.

“I couldn’t have asked for a better way to wrap up 2015 with the win in Saudi Arabia. I’m pleased with my performances so far, but I remain focused on what is a big year ahead. To open another year of racing in Abu Dhabi is just perfect, and I hope that the excellent conditions at Yas Marina Circuit can help me unleash the best in me. I know that I’ve got more in the tank, and I’ve spent considerable time with the team over the break to assess every inch of my races so far this season – hopefully it will show!,” he said.

For racing fans in the UAE, the return of the spectacular Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge Middle East to the capital will serve as a timely reminder of the country’s domination so far this season, with Schmidt’s Al Nabooda Racing Team occupying two of the three top spots in the standings. In addition to the mercurial Schmidt, the team secured the services of Kuwaiti star Zaid Ashkanani ahead of the campaign, which has truly paid dividends for the UAE outfit.

“It’s been a great experience for me [at Al Nabooda Racing] and I really enjoy being part of the team. To work in tandem with a talented teammate like Jeffrey [Schmidt] is a privilege, and together we’re always looking to push each other to go as fast as we can. Thankfully the results have been excellent, and now I can’t wait to race in Abu Dhabi and give our fans something more to cheer about next weekend,” Ashkanani said.

After two exhilarating first rounds of the new Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge Middle East season in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia, Al Nabooda Racing sit comfortably atop of the team standings as well, no doubt helped by the dynamic duo’s incredibly consistent performances. However, with the new series only midway through, anything can still happen – especially at the notoriously challenging Yas Marina Circuit, famed for hosting the annual Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix and for its unique turns and long straights which allows for plenty of overtaking opportunities.

Reigning champions Dubai Skydive Falcons, second in the team standings, is fronted by talisman Shaikh Hasher Al Maktoum who will be aiming to recapture his best form in what will be the first of three consecutive rounds on home soil. Currently sitting in 4th place ahead of fellow Emirati teammate Saeed Al Mehairi, he is excited to be back in Abu Dhabi.“Both myself and the team have got fond memories from Yas Marina Circuit, and we feel confident that we can show our local fans just how committed we are to retaining the title. It’s been a mixed start to the series so far, but now we’re back in the UAE and ready to start the new year on a high,” he said.

Overall Driver Standings after Round 2 – Top 6

Name Country Team Points

1st Jeffrey Schmidt UAE Al Nabooda Racing 100

2nd Ryan Cullen IRL Cullen Racing 86

3rd Zaid Ashkanani Kuwait Al Nabooda Racing 82

4th Hasher Al Maktoum UAE Skydive Dubai Falcons 69

5th Saeed Al Mehairi UAE Skydive Dubai Falcons 67

6th Abdulaziz AlFaisal KSA AlFaisal Racing 60