Yokohama Named as Sepang 12H Tire Supplier

Photo: SRO

Yokohama will be the unique tire supplier for the 2016 Sepang 12 Hours, it was announced on Friday.

The Japanese manufacturer will supply tires for all classes racing at the Malaysian circuit on Dec. 8-11. This includes GT3, GTC, GT4/Sport Production, Touring Production and TC entries.

The race will serve as the third and final round of the inaugural season of the Intercontinental GT Challenge, which started with the Liqui-Moly Bathurst 12 Hour in February and will continue later this month with the Total 24 Hours of Spa.

“It is a great honor for Yokohama to be selected as the official tire supplier for the first year of the new single tire brand system in the Sepang 12 Hours,” said Masataki Yamaishi, president of Yokohoma Motorsports International.

“We are confident that we can provide high-quality tires and race services, taking advantage of our past experiences. Thank you very much to Sepang International Circuit, SRO Motorsports Group and all of the teams.”

The SRO is expecting a large entry for the race, which no longer has a date clash with the Gulf 12 Hours. This caused considerable controversy last year and smaller-than-expected grids.

“I am very pleased to confirm that on top of the manufacturers entered as part of the Intercontinental GT Challenge, most participants from last year will return,” added Benjamin Franassovici, race manager.

“Besides that, new entries will be taking part in the 2016 edition. Each class will be well represented, with a firm interest in GT4, which is looking to grow in Asia next season.”

The provisional timetable has also been revealed, with a 12:00 p.m. local time start scheduled on Saturday, Dec. 10.

Jake Kilshaw

Jake Kilshaw is a UK-based journalist. He is a graduate of Politics and International Relations.