Li Sicheng and Pang Chengguan clinched a brilliant GTC class win in the season opener of the revitalised China GT Championship at Ningbo SpeedPark International, driving the #2 Blackjack Racing Lamborghini Super Trofeo Evo 2.
With limited track time and little prior experience on Pirelli’s wet-weather tyres, the experienced Chinese duo delivered a stellar performance in treacherous conditions at the FIA Grade 2 circuit in Zhejiang Province, bringing the Italian bull home in fourth overall in the 38-minute plus one-lap race.
The race was not without drama. A fuel pump issue during qualifying forced the team into a last-minute car swap, meaning the Blackjack Racing Lamborghini was relegated to the back of the grid for the start.
Li Sicheng took the opening stint, steadily working his way through the field while avoiding unnecessary risks. With the track drenched, the GT3-spec cars held a distinct advantage. Nevertheless, the former Macau Grand Prix F4 podium finisher fought his way into fourth place before handing the car over to his teammate.
As conditions deteriorated further, Pang Chengguan suffered a couple of spins on his out-lap. After a few hair-raising moments, he regained his composure, settled into a rhythm, and kept the #2 Blackjack Racing Lamborghini Super Trofeo Evo 2 on course for a strong fourth-place finish.
Reflecting on the race, Team Principal and driver Pang Chengguan said:
“The conditions this weekend were incredibly challenging, and we lacked sufficient experience with the Pirelli wets. Without my three spins on the out-lap, we would have been fighting for an overall podium. Sicheng did a fantastic job, charging from second-last to fourth by the time he handed me the car. We’ll come back stronger for the next round in Shanghai.”
The next round of the China GT Championship is scheduled to take place on April 26/27 at Shanghai International Circuit.
