Absolute Racing, in collaboration with GEEK VP, showcased an impressive performance at the FIA GT World Cup during the 71st Macau Grand Prix, with Belgian driver Alessio Picariello steering the No. 911 GEEK VP Absolute Racing Porsche 911 GT3 R (Type 992) to a commendable fourth place finish on a race filled with dynamic action.
Quickest on Thursday
The weather played a significant role on the first day, presenting mixed conditions during both Free Practice session. Despite the return of light rain showers which dampened the 6.2-km Guia Circuit, Alessio Picariello demonstrated exceptional skill, setting the fastest lap at 2:21.329 in Free Practice 2. His time was 0.304 seconds faster than his teammate Laurens Vanthoor in the sister Absolute Racing Porsche, highlighting the team's competitive edge under variable conditions.
The Possible Qualifying
On Friday, as conditions improved, the track dried out, but remained less than ideal for the Porsche line-ups. Nevertheless, Alessio Picariello and the Absolute Racing team expertly capitalized on the available performance window, securing an eighth place, thus positioning the GEEK VP-liveried Porsche on the fourth row for the Qualification Race.
Moving Forward
The crucial Qualification Race on Saturday unfolded under clear skies and dry conditions, critical for setting the grid for the Main Race. Alessio Picariello made an outstanding start from eighth place, advancing to seventh place which he maintained to the finish line, outpacing all other Porsches in the race.
“I've had bad luck with all the yellow and red flag situations, but then again, so have many other drivers. We could have hoped for a slightly better result, but there wasn't much more we could do, which is quite frustrating,” he commented.
Close to Podium
The weather took a dramatic turn on Sunday, with conditions worsening significantly, and the 16-lap Main Race began on a wet track behind the Safety Car. Despite the challenging circumstances, the Porsche driver showcased his skill and experience, holding his position at the start while applying impressive pressure on the car ahead.
As the race unfolded, the track gradually dried, yet the margin for error remained razor-thin. The Absolute Racing driver was fully aware of this reality; while expertly defending his position, he consistently kept the driver in front under intense pressure.
Amidst a flurry of battles throughout the field, some competitors faced challenges that led to mistakes and collisions. However, Alessio Picariello stood out by maintaining his focus and steadily improving his lap times. Starting from seventh on the grid, Alessio Picariello made a remarkable ascent to fourth place, crossing the finish line with a fierce resolve as he, Absolute Racing and Geek VP celebrated this teamwork achievement.
Ingo Matter, Team Principal of Absolute Racing, said: "Overall we must be happy because we maximised the package from what we have, and we have been the best Porsche team the whole weekend. Of course, Of course, we would have liked to finish on the podium, but unfortunately this didn't happen. However, I think we can walk away with the head held high and it was a good weekend and everybody did a fantastic job.”
Alessio Picariello, No. 911 GEEK VP Absolute Racing Driver, added: "It's not a bad result, but I am disappointed because we had the pace. Given everything that happened during the race, finishing outside the podium it hurts, but that's racing. We demonstrated strong performance, yet when you're behind the BMW on this track, overtaking becomes nearly impossible. I'm grateful to have been part of the team again and thankful to Porsche for choosing me for this race. I look forward to returning next year even stronger.”
