Audi Sport Asia has confirmed that Cheng Congfu and Yu Kuai will return to defend their Silver Cup crown in the 2026 GT World Challenge Asia powered by AWS (GTWC Asia) season.
As a result, the Chinese pairing will once again spearhead Audi’s customer racing efforts in the region. Moreover, they will aim not only to retain their class title but also to challenge for outright honours across the championship.
Proven partnership returns with Audi-backed Phantom Global Racing for 2026 GTWC Australia
Cheng and Yu will continue their successful partnership with Phantom Global Racing. The team will field the familiar Audi R8 LMS GT3 Evo II across the six-round campaign. Importantly, the season begins at Sepang International Circuit, setting the stage for an early test of their title defence credentials. Because of their established chemistry and proven pace, the duo enters the season as one of the benchmark combinations in the Silver Cup category.
In addition to their GTWC Asia campaign, Cheng and Yu recently demonstrated their competitiveness during qualifying for the revived Suzuka 1000km. Teaming up with fellow Silver-rated driver Deng Yi, the trio secured an impressive third place on the grid. Consequently, this result highlights their ability to compete against top-tier international opposition.
Therefore, their strong qualifying performance provides valuable momentum heading into the GTWC Asia season opener.
Audi Sport Asia reinforces regional commitment
Audi Sport Asia continues to emphasise its commitment to developing motorsport across the region. Since its launch in 2012, the programme has played a key role in supporting teams, drivers, and technical operations.
Alexander Blackie, head of Audi Sport customer racing Asia, stated:
“Since our launch in 2012, Audi Sport customer racing Asia has been a driving force for the development of motorsport in the region together with our customers and teams,” said Audi Sport customer racing Asia boss Alexander Blackie. “This mission continues as we enter our 15th season.
“Audi Sport Asia Drivers Cheng Congfu and Yu Kuai will again lend their invaluable experience and talent to our customers’ campaigns, while also flying the flag for Chinese motorsport in the prestigious GT World Challenge Asia.
“In tandem with the pro driver program, our industry-leading onsite technical and spare parts customer support will be provided at all major races and series across the region.”
Expanded Audi programme still to be revealed ahead of 2026 GTWC Asia campaign
Audi Sport Asia has also confirmed that a second full-season GTWC Asia entry with Phantom Global Racing will be announced shortly. This signals further expansion of its competitive footprint in the series.
At the same time, the organisation will continue supporting customer teams running GT3, GT4, and TCR machinery across Asia. Consequently, Audi maintains a strong multi-category presence in regional motorsport.
Interestingly, Markus Winkelhock—previously named in a three-driver pool alongside Cheng and Yu—was not mentioned in the latest announcement.
This omission raises questions about the final composition of Audi Sport Asia’s driver roster for the 2026 season. Nevertheless, the confirmed return of Cheng and Yu ensures continuity at the front of its GTWC Asia campaign.
Outlook for the 2026 GTWC Asia Season
Overall, Audi Sport Asia enters the new GTWC Asia season with a clear objective: defend its Silver Cup title while pushing for overall success. With continuity, experience, and proven performance on their side, Cheng and Yu remain central to that ambition.
As the championship kicks off in Malaysia, all eyes will be on whether the duo can convert their momentum into another title-winning campaign.
