Mies to Become First Foreign Driver in Series Since Pandemic

Photo: Audi

Christopher Mies is set to become the first internationally-based driver to compete in Fanatec GT World Challenge Australia powered by AWS competition since the onset of the coronavirus pandemic more than 20 months ago, with the Audi Sport factory ace confirmed to take part in next weekend’s season finale at Bathurst.

The 32-year-old German will pull double duty between the GTWC Australia round and the Supercheap Auto TCR Australia rounds at Mount Panorama at the wheel of Audi machinery.

The former Australian GT champion and lap record holder at Bathurst in an unrestricted Audi R8 LMS GT3 will team up with Yasser Shahin in one of Melbourne Performance Centre’s Audi R8 LMS GT3 Evos.

Mies will sub for Garth Tander, who is unable to compete due to his broadcast and racing commitments.

He will also drive an Audi RS 3 LMS TCR in the TCR Bathurst 400.

A relaxing of border rules into New South Wales, which beginning Dec. 1 will permit international travelers with visas to enter the country without quarantine, has made Mies’ trip possible.

It comes three months ahead of February’s rescheduled Liqui-Moly Bathurst 12 Hour, where a large contingent of international teams and drivers are expected for the Intercontinental GT Challenge powered by Pirelli season opener.

“Bathurst is always special and to come back after many years after not being able to be in Australia, I’m really looking forward to it,” said Mies.

“Australia is my favourite country and racing there is always a pleasure. I like the Australian racing culture.

“It’s been a long time since I’ve driven a TCR car. It was a couple years back developing the Gen 1 car.

“Also jumping back and forward in two different kinds of race cars is something I haven’t done for years so don’t judge me if I am holding everyone up in the first session!

“Obviously my main goal is to help Yasser win the championship and this is what I will do. From what I’ve heard he’s a great guy and an even better racer.

“I can’t wait to get this done for him and MPC. I’ve really missed these guys and I’m looking forward to continuing our story together.”

John Dagys

John Dagys is the founder and Editor-in-Chief of Sportscar365. Dagys spent eight years as a motorsports correspondent for FOXSports.com and SPEED Channel and has contributed to numerous other motorsports publications worldwide. Contact John