Absolute Racing and Tsingtao Beer will partner for the second consecutive year, showcasing the world’s most famous Chinese beer brand on the No. 25 Porsche 911 GT3 R (Type 992), driven by Porsche driver Laurens Vanthoor, in the 2024 Macau GT Cup – FIA GT World Cup.
This will take place during the 71st running of the Macau Grand Prix, from 14 to 17 November.
The Race
The FIA GT World Cup, a single-driver GT3 sprint event, has been a standout attraction of the Macau Grand Prix weekend since 2015. The 6.115-kilometre Guia Circuit is regarded as one of the most challenging tracks in global motorsport, featuring iconic sections like Lisboa and Mandarim Corners.
The Key Partner
Tsingtao Brewery, founded in 1903, is one of the earliest breweries in China and now a top global brand. Tsingtao combines Chinese craftsmanship and German technology, bringing unique and refreshing beer to over 120 countries. This year, Tsingtao celebrates its legacy by partnering once more with Absolute Racing.
The Team
Porsche Motorsport Asia Pacific customer team Absolute Racing is one of Asia’s premier racing outfits, vying for a fifth Macau GT Cup win. Last year, Matteo Cairolli placed the Tsingtao-liveried No. 120 Porsche in 11th on the grid after free practice. This year, the team is back with renewed vigor and the addition of Laurens Vanthoor.
The Car
The Porsche 911 GT3 R is built on the 992 platform with a rear-engine layout and distinctive six-cylinder exhaust note. It features an expanded engine displacement and enhanced power, promising powerful performance and optimal traction.
The Livery
This year, the No. 25 Porsche 911 GT3 R (Type 992) features a dragon-inspired red and gold livery to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Macau SAR, replacing Tsingtao’s classic colors. The new design pays homage to Chinese culture and symbolizes luck and power.
The Driver
Laurens Vanthoor, the 2016 FIA GT World Cup winner, will drive for Absolute Racing for the first time in Macau. The accomplished Belgian driver, with victories in the 24 Hours of Le Mans and Spa among others, is set to chase a win in this year’s Macau Grand Prix.
Team Quotes
Yaqun Sun, General Manager of Tsingtao Macau: "Once again, we are thrilled to partner with Porsche and Absolute Racing for the Macau Grand Prix. This year, our stunning red and gold livery echoes the celebration of the Macau SAR and the Year of the Dragon. With Laurens Vanthoor as our driver, we look forward to an exhilarating race and celebrating with a bottle of Tsingtao at the finish line!”
Ingo Matter, Team Director of Absolute Racing: "We’re delighted to welcome Tsingtao back for the second consecutive year. Tsingtao is a brand with a proud heritage across various sporting series worldwide and is making its mark on the Macau Grand Prix. After the races, we look forward to raising a bottle of Tsingtao together in celebration."
Laurens Vanthoor, No. 25 Tsingtao Absolute Racing Porsche driver: “I’m thrilled to return to Macau for the FIA GT World Cup race with Absolute Racing and Tsingtao. Macau is always a personal highlight, with an amazing atmosphere. Chasing victory with Porsche would be a dream come true. I hope we can take one more step forward this year and fight for the World Cup victory.”
TIMETABLE
THURSDAY, 14 NOVEMBER
11:05 - 11:35 FREE PRACTICE 1
14:35 - 15:05 FREE PRACTICE 2
FRIDAY, 15 NOVEMBER
14:05 - 14:35 QUALIFYING
SATURDAY, 16 NOVEMBER
13:50 - 14:50 QUALIFYING RACE // 12 LAPS
SUNDAY, 17 NOVEMBER
12:25 - 13:35 MAIN RACE // 16 LAPS