Peerless Picariello tames Suzuka Circuit at Audi R8 LMS Cup

The Audi R8 LMS Cup made a dramatic debut at the iconic Suzuka Circuit on Saturday 10^th June, where MGT by Absolute's Alessio Picariello stormed to a dominant victory from pole on one of the most demanding and unforgiving race tracks on earth. Despite carrying 35kg of success ballast, the 23-year old Belgian rocketed over the line more than seven seconds ahead of closest challenger, 22-year old OD Racing Team driver Mitch Gilbert.

Picariello's win and pole position take his championship points tally to 71, extending his lead at the top. Cup triple champion, Alex Yoong of Team Audi R8 LMS Cup is in second place on 37 points, 34 behind his Belgian rival, with Gilbert in third on 33 points. Shaun Thong of Audi TEDA Racing Team is on equal points with Gilbert and fourth in the standings, one point ahead of FAW-VW Audi Racing Team's Cheng Congfu of China.

Team Audi Volkswagen Taiwan driver Jeffrey Lee leads the Am+ standings after three rounds on 42 points, while Rick Yoon of KCMG continues to lead the Am category with 28 points in total.