Beijing, China. (July 19, 2016) – The 2016 Lamborghini Blancpain Super Trofeo Asia series will visit Thailand for the first time ever later this month, to race the third leg of the competition at the Buriram United International Circuit. The track is the first in Thailand to have FIA Grade 1 and FIM Grade A ratings and was opened in 2014, making it one of Asia's newest racing circuits. Measuring in at just over 4.55km, the course was designed by famous track engineer Hermann Tilke and has since opening already played host to the Japanese Super GT, World Touring Car Championship, World Superbike Championship and the Asian Le Mans Series to name just a few.
Local support for Lamborghini is growing rapidly in Thailand, with Thai racing driver Supachai Weeraborwornpong commenting on the upcoming Buriram stop at the series opening round in Shanghai: "I am very excited; it's a new track for Super Trofeo, it's very exciting track and we would love to make Thailand a favorite spot for racing!"
This year marks a number of firsts for the Lamborghini Blancpain Super Trofeo; it is the first time the Huracán, Lamborghini's newest purpose-built race car, will line up solo on the grid. In addition, two new tracks have been added to the Asia series roster, with round 2 of the series held in Japan at Suzuka last month, and the coming round 3 to be held at the Buriram United International Circuit later in July.
The Super Trofeo Asia series, now in its fifth season, continues to grow year on year, with last year's introduction of the Lamborghini Huracán LP 620-2 Super Trofeo spurning fresh interest among both veteran and new racers. Along with repeat series contenders, the competition sees a number of new entries this year, including a number of new drivers from China. Racers from eight nations across Asia will compete for the championship lead in a thrilling continuation of the series.
Racing in the championship is divided into four separate podiums, recognizing the breadth of talent in the Super Trofeo field. After each race, there is a podium for the top three finishers in the Overall, Pro-Am, Am and Lamborghini Cup (for new drivers and rookies) classes. The championship provides exciting action for professional and aspiring professional drivers alike.
The Lamborghini Huracán LP 620-2 Super Trofeo adopts the same V10 direct injection engine mounted on the road car, managed by a Motec control unit that delivers a maximum output of 620 horsepower. The frame is a hybrid carbon/aluminum construction with modified geometries to house an improved radiator up front and better accommodate the racing gearbox at the rear, which also provides better aerodynamics.
There will be two 50-minute sprint races at Buriram. Round 1 will start at 14:50 pm (ICT) Saturday, July 23, with Round 2 on Sunday July 24 at 12.20 pm (ICT). Qualifying begins at 10:25 am on Saturday July 23.
The 2016 Asia series features 12 rounds spread over six race weekends, all at iconic circuits. The first five events showcase some of the best tracks in Asia. The sixth event and final two rounds of the season will be at Circuit Ricardo Tormo in Valencia, Spain, where following the conclusion of the Asian races, the Super Trofeo Asia, Europe and North America series will converge in a world final to battle for the right claim a spot on the global podium.
Lamborghini and dealers entertain VIP guests at every stop of the Lamborghini Blancpain Super Trofeo Asia series with premier hospitality and fine Italian dining.