Further international racing is on the cards for New Zealand driver Faine Kahia following an impressive test drive in Italy with Championship-winning Lamborghini team, Vincenzo Sospiri Racing (VSR).
Kahia had been recommended to VSR by Peter Thompson due to his performance in the Formula 4 Southeast Asia Championship 2016/2017 series. Determined to continue his overseas success, Kahia certainly took this bull by the horns and proved he has what it takes to be competitive in a European GT class.
The test was carried out at the Cremona Circuit earlier this month in the VSR Lamborghini Super Trofeo Huracán with the Italian Super GT configuration. Kahia immediately demonstrated a good ability to adapt to the new car and circuit, showing good car control from the start. Following each session, analysis of the telemetry data showed where he could modify his technique which resulted in improved lap times. Ultimately Kahia’s best lap time of 1.25.7 broke the team’s lap record at that track.
“I went into this test aiming to make a good impression and prove that I can be quick at one lap pace as well as race distance pace. I couldn’t be happier with the results, especially having jumped in without any prior GT experience. Vincenzo and the engineers were great to work with throughout the test day which enabled me to take in their evaluations quickly and execute their instructions precisely. It was easy to see why their team is a consistent front runner in many championships.”
As Kahia continues to chip away at his goals towards a professional international career, he now has his sights set on the 2018 Italian Super GT Championship and 2019 Lamborghini Super Trofeo Europe Championship.
“I see it as the perfect next step for me because GT racing and endurance racing are valuable skills to have in combination with formula racing experience. I felt comfortable in the Lamborghini straight away and knowing there’s still room for improvement I am confident that with more testing and time in the car I will consistently manage the car to the front in races.” Vincenzo Sospiri also believes that with the right preparation and good team behind him Kahia could fight to be at the front.
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