Alex Yoong is now a three-time Audi R8 LMS Cup Champion! [+Video]

Credit: Audi R8 LMS Cup Official Facebook Page


Malaysian racing sensation, Alex Yoong has emerged at the top of the driver’s championship standings at the action-packed finale of Audi R8 LMS Cup 2016. Alex’s victory in Shanghai effectively seals his status as the one and only three-time champion, and does so in three consecutive seasons!

His third title was hard fought, because there were five other drivers who were in the running to win the driver’s title. Prior to Shanghai, Alex had 148 points and was second in the overall standings, with three points behind leader Alessio Picariello of Belgium. Alex’s title defense began in style by securing the Superpole, meaning he will begin round 11 in pole position.

The former F1 driver’s game plan during the first race in Shanghai was to get onto the podium and finish ahead of Alessio. He did it by securing second place while the Belgian settled for third place. Following that, Alex had one point advantage at the end of race 11, before moving onto the final race of the year.2016-audi-lmscup-sepang-10

In round 12, Alex and Alessio started from fourth and sixth on the grid, respectively. Drama ensued on the final lap when the aggressive Belgian collided with Alex. The contact damaged Alex’s R8, who was then forced into retirement. Shortly after, the race stewards gave Alessio a 30-second time penalty, which handed Alex his title on a silver platter.

Both races were won by Martin Rump, becoming the first Cup driver ever to win while carrying a 50kg ballast. Check out the race highlights below!

Our heartiest congratulations go out to Alex for his well-deserved hat-trick!

[Image Credit: Credit: Audi R8 LMS Cup Official Facebook Page]