Ho-Pin Tung plans title fightback

Alongside team-mates Stéphane Richelmi and Gabriel Aubry, Tung has taken two race wins so far at Silverstone and Shanghai in a campaign that has pushed the trio into title contention.

“The positive thing for us is that we have had a very fast car since Silverstone last year and we have been pretty dominant in some races from a speed point of view,” explained Tung.

“For us in the No. 38 car it is just a shame that we have dropped points in the two races where extra points are up for grabs [Le Mans and Sebring]. But, for Spa, we are sure the car will be quick. Last year we finished second behind the G-Drive Racing car so we know we will be in good shape for Belgium.”

Tung knows that the ‘Mighty 38’ entry faces stiff opposition, and none more so than from new points leaders Signatech Alpine Matmut with the potent trio of Nicolas Lapierre, Pierre Thiriet and André Negrão.

“I know Signatech [Matmut Alpine] well because I have raced for them and they are a well organised, solid and professional squad,” said Tung.

“They have been consistent, and always are in Spa. They picked up points when we didn’t but, on outright pace, we look a bit stronger and that is partly due to the great work that Jackie Chan DC Racing have done throughout the season.”

For Tung, who has been one of the most consistent of LMP2 performers over several seasons, the objective of taking the title is a significant one.

“Being crowned champions would be a very big deal, not just for me personally but also for the big following we have back in China,” he explained. “We saw that after our success at Le Mans in 2017 there was a lot of interest and the performances we have had since, especially at Shanghai last November, makes everyone hungry for another celebration.

“Winning a world title is special and I think if we can bring it all together and believe in ourselves, then we have a good chance.”