Al Manar Racing will make its return to the International GT Open during this weekend’s round at Misano, marking an important comeback for one of the championship’s familiar and successful teams. The Omani outfit, which has built a strong reputation across international GT racing, now prepares to rejoin the grid with renewed ambitions and a competitive new partnership.
The team has enjoyed considerable success in the GT Open in previous campaigns, securing nine race victories while consistently fighting near the front of the field. Consequently, its return adds further quality and experience to the championship as the season progresses into a crucial phase.
Dragon Racing Partnership strengthens programme
For its latest GT Open campaign, Al Manar Racing has entered into a technical partnership with Dubai-based Dragon Racing. The collaboration also links the programme with Into Africa Racing, another operation supported by Dragon Racing within the GT racing scene.
As part of the new partnership, the team will compete with the Ferrari 296 GT3, a car that has already delivered valuable experience for Al Manar Racing during its winter programme in the Middle East. Therefore, the team arrives at Misano with a solid understanding of the machinery and expectations of challenging for strong results immediately.
The Ferrari 296 GT3 continues to establish itself as one of the leading cars in international GT competition, and Al Manar Racing will aim to maximise its potential during the upcoming rounds.
Al Faisal Al Zubair leads team’s return
Naturally, Al Faisal Al Zubair will spearhead the team’s comeback effort. The 28-year-old remains the driving force behind Al Manar Racing and continues to represent Oman prominently on the global GT racing stage.
Al Zubair already possesses an impressive history in the International GT Open, having secured the Vice Championship title in 2021. Moreover, his familiarity with the championship could prove vital as the team reintegrates into the competitive GT Open environment.
For the Misano round, Al Zubair will share driving duties with experienced Italian racer David Fumanelli. The 34-year-old remains a well-known figure within the series and brings significant GT racing knowledge to the partnership.
Together, the pairing combines experience, consistency and familiarity with GT Open competition, which should strengthen Al Manar Racing’s prospects during its returning campaign.
Additional GT Open appearances confirmed
Beyond Misano, Al Manar Racing has already confirmed further appearances in the International GT Open calendar. The team will also compete at Paul Ricard and Monza later in the season, underlining its commitment to maintaining a presence within the championship.
As a result, the returning programme offers Al Manar Racing an opportunity not only to add to its previous success but also to re-establish itself as a regular contender within one of Europe’s leading GT series.
