Need for Speed Schubert takes Dubai 24 Hour glory

The #76 Need for Speed Schubert BMW took victory in this weekend's Dubai 24 Hours, enjoying a trouble free run at the Middle Eastern twice-around-the-clock event.


The early demise of the pole-sitting Reiter Lamborghini Gallardo - a victim of engine failure - and the onset of terminal gearbox problems for the Gulf Team First Lambo left the road clear for the Schubert entry to cruise to victory. The German squad assumed the lead during the third hour and would not be troubled from there to the flag.



ALMS racer Tommy Milner and World Touring Car Championship star Augusto Farfus joined Schubert regulars Claudia Hurtgen and Edward Sandstrom in Dubai, and the two newcomers to the team were thrilled with their triumph.

“The 24-hour race in Dubai is the first tough test of the year for all the teams, and we mastered this challenge in style,” said Milner afterwards. “This was my first race at this circuit. Winning this kind of marathon at the first attempt is something I will certainly never forget."



“Everyone in the team gave everything – and we were rewarded with the win today,” added Farfus. “This race is completely different to the Nürburgring 24 Hours, which I also won with Team BMW Motorsport in 2010. However, I must say: Dubai is very special. The atmosphere is fantastic and the drivers all support one another. I really, really enjoyed myself.”



Team manager Stefan Wendl was also pleased with his crew’s performance at the desert enduro.



“Our tactics worked perfectly,” said Wendl. “At the start of the race we were able to develop a two-lap lead with the No. 76 car, which we then had to maintain without putting too much strain on the [car] or taking any risks. This is our first big victory at a 24-hour race and a great reward for everyone in the team.”



Second place went to the #4 AF Corse Ferrari, piloted by Eppe Perazzini, Michal Broniszewski, Lorenzo Case and Marco Cioci, with the #7 Black Falcon Mercedes a further lap back in third.



Watch Dubai 24 Hours highlights on Motors TV.




James Weeks