From May 30 to June 1, the 3rd Round of GT World Challenge Asia took place at the Buriram Circuit . Team KRC made a strong return to Buriram after a year's absence, continuing their impressive momentum since the start of the season. Gentleman driver Cunfan Ruan teamed up with young Dutch talented Maxime Oosten in the #89 BMW M4 GT3 EVO, delivering a powerful performance. The duo secured one win and one runner-up finish in the Silver-Am category across the two races, achieving five victories out of six races so far and currently leading the catefory standings at the halfway point of the season.
Located in Thailand's northeastern Buriram Province, the Chang International Circuit was designed by world-renowned track architect Hermann Tilke. The 4.554-kilometer track features 12 corners and has received dual Grade 1 certification from both the FIA and FIM. With its combination of long straights and technical corners, it is hailed as Thailand's most challenging circuit. Since the inception of GT World Challenge Asia in 2017, Buriram has been a regular fixture on the calendar, serving as a competitive battleground for drivers and teams alike.
Throughout the Buriram race weekend, the weather remained unpredictable. Although both Thursday and Friday practice sessions were run under dry conditions, the circuit stayed humid and damp, adding an extra layer of uncertainty to the entire weekend.
During Saturday's qualifying,Ruan took the wheel for Q1 and gradually ramped up the pace with the #89 BMW, ultimately clocking a best lap of 1:35.654 on his sixth lap to rank 3rd in the Silver-Am category. In Q2, Oosten delivered another stellar performance, setting a fastest lap time of 1:33.696. This secured the #89 car an impressive P2 overall starting position and the top spot in the Silver-Am category.
Race 1 saw a dramatic start, with multiple cars involved in a chain-reaction collision at Turn 1. Although Ruan skillfully avoided the chaos at the first corner, he was struck by a pursuing competitor midway through the lap, which sent the #89 car to the back of the field and left it trailing the pack. Nevertheless, he began to fight back, overtaking cars on track and steadily regaining positions.
During the mid-race , with a potential safety car looming due to stranded vehicles on track, the #89 crew opted to stay out and continue pushing. After most competitors had completed their driver changes, Ruan brought the car into the pit and handed over to Oosten. Thanks to sharp strategy and a well-executed pit stop, Oosten rejoined the race in 3rd position within the Silver-Am category. Following a brief safety car period, the race resumed, and the young Dutchman swiftly passed his rival to move into 2nd in category. Eventually, Oosten crossed the finish line 9th overall and 2nd in the Silver-Am category—a strong recovery drive after the early contact, minimizing the damage to their championship campaign.
Race 2 also opened with an incident at the start, prompting an early safety car intervention. Starting from P2 on the grid, Oosten closely shadowed the race leader prior to the pit stop, maintaining a composed and strategic approach while looking for an overtaking opportunity.Ruan took over the #89 BMW and resumed the charge, all while managing pressure from pursuing rivals.
As the checkered flag waved, Ruan brought the #89 BMW home in 2nd overall and 1st in the Silver-Am category! This not only marked the team's best-ever overall finish in the GTWCA, but also secured their 5th category victory of the season!
With the conclusion of the Buriram round, the GT World Challenge Asia has officially reached the halfway of the season. Team KRC has not only solidified its lead in the Silver-Am standings, but also now holds a shared 2nd place in the overall drivers' championship. Demonstrating consistent pace and outstanding teamwork, the squad continues to prove its competitive edge. The battle presses on—next stop, the legendary Fuji Speedway. We look forward to seeing the team shines once again!
