AO Racing Partners with Absolute Racing for Suzuka 1000km Debut
AO Racing will make its debut in the Intercontinental GT Challenge this September with Bushi Rex, a new Samurai-inspired car and character in the AO Racing Universe. For their return to Japan, the team is partnering with Absolute Racing to field the No. 8 Porsche 911 GT3 R in the Suzuka 1000km at Suzuka Circuit, September 11–13.
Behind the wheel is a formidable driver lineup featuring Laurin Heinrich, who captured the 2024 IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship GTD PRO title with AO Racing, alongside fellow Porsche factory drivers Alessio Picariello and Julien Andlauer.
Making his first appearance will be Bushi Rex, the ancient samurai ancestor of fan-favorite Porsche 911 GT3 Rawr, Rexy. During his 2023 visit to Japan for the World Endurance Championship, Rexy researched his family history and discovered his lineage traced back to the legendary Rex Family Samurai Clan, whose greatest warrior was Bushi (Japanese for warrior) Rex. For AO Racing's first trip to the Suzuka 1000km, the legendary samurai returns to answer his descendant's call.
“AO is excited to partner with Absolute Racing and Porsche Motorsport Asia Pacific for the Suzuka 1000km,” said Team Principal Gunnar Jeannette. “With a stellar driver lineup and an amazing new character, we are very much looking forward to putting on a show, especially for our Japanese fans. This will be our first foray into the Intercontinental GT Challenge, and we believe we have all the pieces in place to fight at the front.”
The Suzuka effort brings together three strong Porsche organizations, combining AO Racing's championship-winning IMSA program, Absolute Racing's extensive experience throughout Asia, and the support of Porsche Motorsport Asia Pacific for the team's Intercontinental GT Challenge debut.
“We are really pleased to announce the partnership between Absolute Racing and AO Racing for this year’s Suzuka 1000km - both are top class Porsche customer teams in their respective regions,” said Alexandre Gibot, Managing Director Porsche Motorsport Asia Pacific Ltd. “Laurin, Alessio and Julien have all competed together with the squad in IMSA SportsCar Championship in previous years and this was a clear objective from Porsche, AO Racing and Absolute Racing - to put together a proven driver line-up coupled with the highest level of technical infrastructure in order to fight for the win.”
Fans attending the Suzuka 1000km will have the opportunity to purchase exclusive merchandise on-site throughout race weekend. Bushi Rex apparel and collectibles will also be made available through the AO Racing online store closer to the event.