CUP3 – Smyrlis Racing sets its sights on points at the Nürburgring
In the CUP3 class, the focus at the ADAC 24h Nürburgring Qualifiers is also on a team that has impressed with its consistency so far this season: Smyrlis Racing. The Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 Clubsport with start number #953, driven by Oskar Sandberg and Alexander Fielenbach, heads into this Qualifiers weekend with a clear objective – to secure vital points for the NLS overall standings.
Even though there is no round of the Porsche Endurance Trophy Nürburgring (PETN) taking place this weekend, the race remains of strategic importance. Smyrlis Racing currently leads the overall standings of the ADAC RAVENOL Nürburgring Endurance Series (NLS) and aims to further consolidate this position.
The CUP3 class once again promises exciting, high-level one-make cup racing. For Sandberg and Fielenbach, the aim is clear: with a clean performance and a clever race strategy, they could take another important step towards the title.
The odd one out – front-wheel-drive BMW 128ti challenges the competition
In the VT2 class for front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive vehicles, one particular car is attracting attention: the BMW 128ti from SRS Team Sorg Rennsport, bearing start number #488. As the only front-wheel-drive BMW 1 Series in the entire starting grid, the car plays a special role – and brings a breath of fresh air to the category.
Driver Nick Deissler highlights its uniqueness: “We’re driving the only front-wheel-drive BMW in the world in the VT2 FWD+4WD class. That’s a first, as BMW is generally known for rear-wheel drive.” The team is confident: “We’ve found a very competitive setup and can compete at the front of our class with our 128ti,” Deissler continues.
However, the challenges on the Nordschleife should not be underestimated. Things get tricky, especially in heavy traffic with faster classes: “Direct contact with the GT3 cars is particularly difficult for us, as we cannot simply leave the ideal line,” explains Deissler. Another problem is the so-called “pick-up” – rubber debris that accumulates, affecting the rear tyres in particular and proving difficult to shake off in a front-wheel-drive car. Despite these hurdles, the team is optimistic about the weekend and wants to show that even an unconventional concept can be competitive on the legendary Nordschleife.
BMW Z4 GT3 is back on the 24-hour grid
Julian Reeh is bringing a crowd favourite back to the Nordschleife at this year’s 24 Hours of Nürburgring with the BMW Z4 GT3. The roaring V8 engine delighted GT fans around the world for many years before disappearing from the starting grids as part of a model update. “We’ve decided to compete with the ageing BMW because the pure running costs are relatively comparable to those of modern GTs. In terms of driving talent, we certainly aren’t in a position to attract attention with spectacular results, but I think with consistent driving and, hopefully, a flawless race, we can gradually work our way up the field. And the thrills in this naturally aspirated V8 are definitely immense for us.
Unfortunately, what still poses a major challenge for us ahead of the race are the spare parts for the somewhat ageing BMW Z4.” Some parts are only available on the so-called “aftermarket”, others only as custom-made items. “Our aim is that we as a team – and here I expressly include all other team members alongside the drivers – will spend a brilliant weekend together among friends. I’m already looking forward to it finally kicking off for us on the Wednesday before the race with the Adenauer Racing Day.”