Craft-Bamboo Racing has unveiled two distinctive liveries for the 2026 FIA GT World Cup in Macau, with Maro Engel and Adderly Fong set to compete in specially designed Mercedes-AMG GT3 Evos. The Hong Kong-based outfit will field two of the manufacturer’s three entries as Mercedes-AMG returns to the prestigious event following a one-year absence.
Engel’s #77 Mercedes-AMG will feature a design inspired by Keisuke Takahashi’s Mazda RX-7 FD3S from the Japanese manga and anime series Initial D, while Fong’s #76 entry will carry a livery featuring Pompompurin, the popular Sanrio character.
Both designs have been created by Tarmac Works, which will also support the team’s participation in the 73rd Macau Grand Prix from 19–22 November.
The announcement adds another element to Mercedes-AMG’s three-car FIA GT World Cup comeback, with Engel seeking another victory at the Guia Circuit and Fong preparing for his 13th Macau appearance.
Engel’s #77 Mercedes-AMG takes inspiration from Initial D
Engel will compete in a Mercedes-AMG GT3 Evo featuring a livery inspired by Keisuke Takahashi’s iconic FD3S Mazda RX-7 from Initial D.
The design pays tribute to the popular Japanese motorsport manga and anime series, which celebrates its 30th anniversary in 2026. It also incorporates references to the racing team featured in the story, bringing a familiar appearance from Japanese car culture to international GT competition.
The #77 Mercedes-AMG will carry backing from Tarmac Works, Motul and IXO Models, with the special livery marking the second Initial D-inspired design produced by Craft-Bamboo Racing.
For Engel, the event represents an opportunity to return to one of his most successful circuits. The German has secured four Macau GT race victories, including his 2022 triumph with Craft-Bamboo Racing.
He also won the FIA GT World Cup in 2015 and 2024, making him one of the most accomplished competitors in the event’s history.
Having missed the 2025 edition following Mercedes-AMG’s withdrawal, Engel will return to the Guia Circuit aiming to add another victory to his record.
Fong’s #76 entry features Sanrio character Pompompurin
The second Craft-Bamboo Racing entry will feature a contrasting design, with Fong’s #76 Mercedes-AMG showcasing the Sanrio character Pompompurin.
The popular character, who also celebrates his 30th anniversary in 2026, will feature prominently on the car alongside his companions Muffin, Scone and Bagel.
The livery has been created by Tarmac Works, with additional support from IXO Models and Aochen Biotechnology.
Fong will compete in the FIA GT World Cup’s newly introduced Silver Cup classification, which provides a separate competition for eligible Silver-rated drivers within the overall GT3 field.
The Hong Kong driver has considerable experience at Macau, having made 12 previous appearances. However, the 2026 event will mark his first competitive outing at the Guia Circuit in a Mercedes-AMG GT3.
He has already gained familiarity with the machinery through his participation in Japan’s Super Taikyu Series with Craft-Bamboo Racing during 2026.
His experience with the team, combined with his knowledge of Macau’s demanding street circuit, will provide a foundation as he prepares to challenge for Silver Cup honours.
Craft-Bamboo Racing targets strong return to Macau
Craft-Bamboo Racing has enjoyed previous success at Macau, including its 2022 GT victory with Engel.
However, the team was absent from the 2025 FIA GT World Cup after Mercedes-AMG elected not to participate. The manufacturer withdrew because of concerns surrounding the preparation and costs associated with the introduction of mandatory torque sensors.
Its return for 2026 follows additional technical preparation, with Mercedes-AMG supporting Craft-Bamboo Racing and Tigani Motorsport as they prepare for the event.
Team director Darryl O’Young welcomed the opportunity to return to Macau, highlighting the work undertaken to bring the programme together.
“Macau has always been a special place for the team,” said O’Young. “After a year away, we are back with two cars in the FIA GT World Cup.
“Lots of work has gone into getting us back here, so big thanks to the entire team for all their hard work, Mercedes-AMG for the technical support and the sponsors for all the continued trust.”
With Engel and Fong bringing extensive Macau experience, O’Young believes the team has a competitive foundation for its return.
O’Young confident in Engel and Fong’s Macau experience
The two Craft-Bamboo Racing drivers bring different strengths to the programme, with Engel’s record of victories complemented by Fong’s familiarity with the venue and the team’s current Mercedes-AMG package.
Engel’s most recent Macau appearance came in 2024, when he claimed his second FIA GT World Cup victory. Meanwhile, Fong competed at the 2025 event with Audi machinery before switching to Mercedes-AMG for the upcoming edition.
O’Young believes the combination gives the Hong Kong outfit an opportunity to challenge near the front of the field.
“I feel we have everything we need to fight at the front – two proven cars and two drivers with plenty of experience in Macau.
“Maro’s record here speaks for itself, especially the memorable win with us in 2022.
“Adderly has made 12 previous Macau starts and has been driving with us all year, so he arrives ready to fight.
“Tarmac has created two special liveries that we know the fans are going to love – so we can’t wait to get going.”
The team’s official livery announcement also highlights the significance of competing at what is effectively a home event for the Hong Kong-based organisation.
Tigani Motorsport completes Mercedes-AMG’s three-car entry
Craft-Bamboo Racing will operate two of the three Mercedes-AMG GT3 Evos entered for the 2026 FIA GT World Cup.
The manufacturer’s third entry will be fielded by Australian outfit Tigani Motorsport, which is preparing for its first appearance at the Macau event.
Lucas Auer will drive the #711 Mercedes-AMG GT3 Evo, carrying a special 7-Eleven-inspired livery.
Unlike Engel and Fong, Auer will make his GT3 racing debut at the Guia Circuit. However, the Austrian already has experience of Macau from his Formula 3 career.
Mercedes-AMG therefore returns with three drivers offering different levels of experience at the venue, while Craft-Bamboo Racing provides the manufacturer with two established Macau competitors.
The wider 2026 FIA GT World Cup entry list features 18 cars representing eight manufacturers, including Aston Martin, Audi, BMW, Ferrari, Lamborghini, McLaren, Mercedes-AMG and Porsche.
Mercedes-AMG prepares for 2026 FIA GT World Cup at Macau
The 2026 FIA GT World Cup will take place from 19–22 November as part of the 73rd Macau Grand Prix.
The 6.120-kilometre Guia Circuit presents one of the most demanding challenges in international GT racing, combining long straights with narrow sections surrounded by barriers.
Qualifying will be particularly important, with track position playing a significant role on a circuit where overtaking opportunities are limited.
The FIA GT World Cup will feature a qualifying race on Saturday, followed by the 16-lap Main Race on Sunday, 22 November.
Mercedes-AMG enters the event with an extensive history of success at Macau, having secured nine GT race victories and five manufacturers’ titles.
With its three-car programme confirmed, Craft-Bamboo Racing’s unveiling completes another part of the manufacturer’s preparations for its return.
Engel will aim to add another victory to his Macau record, while Fong targets Silver Cup success on familiar streets. Their specially designed Initial D and Pompompurin liveries will also give the Hong Kong outfit a distinctive appearance as it returns to one of international GT racing’s most prestigious events.
