Phantom Global Racing Set for Suzuka 1000km Debut with Iconic ‘Pink Pig’ Livery
Phantom Global Racing is poised to make its debut at the Suzuka 1000km next month, fielding a formidable all-pro lineup in the #23 Porsche 911 GT3 R. The team consists of Porsche factory drivers Klaus Bachler and Patric Niederhauser, alongside Porsche Motorsport Asia Pacific’s selected driver, Dorian Boccolacci.
The vehicle will showcase a throwback to the legendary ‘Pink Pig’ livery, originally seen on the winning 917/20 at the 1971 Le Mans 24 Hours. This design returns to prominence as part of a celebration of the Suzuka 1000km’s storied history.
Boccolacci, currently third in the GT World Challenge Asia Drivers’ Championship and fresh from a series debut in the SUPER GT Series, expressed enthusiasm about competing alongside his accomplished teammates. “It’s great to be racing with Phantom Global Racing again in Asia… I’m just excited to get out on track,” he stated.
Klaus Bachler, who holds the current FIA Endurance Trophy for LMGT3 Drivers and is competing for the IMSA WeatherTech GTD PRO title, emphasized the high caliber of their lineup and the rich history associated with their livery. “We have a great car and driver lineup… to add more history to the already legendary livery,” Bachler noted.
Patric Niederhauser, a previous victor of the Indianapolis 8 Hour powered by AWS, also conveyed his excitement regarding the teaming with Boccolacci and Bachler. “… We know we have what it takes to achieve a great result in Suzuka next month,” he commented.
This will mark Phantom Global Racing’s third entry into the Intercontinental GT Challenge, following a commendable fourth-place finish at the 2024 Bathurst 12 Hour and successful completion of the Spa 24 Hours. In the Porsche Carrera Cup Asia, team driver Dylan Pereira leads the standings.
Porsche has historically dominated the Suzuka 1000km, securing 11 overall wins, the last of which came in 1994. Alexandre Gibot, Managing Director of PMAP, expressed confidence in the team’s potential: "We’re looking forward to seeing Dorian alongside Klaus and Patric… in a car inspired by an iconic heritage Porsche livery."
With this strategic lineup, Phantom Global Racing aims to leave a mark in its inaugural Suzuka 1000km appearance, drawing from the legacy of Porsche and the drivers’ impressive accolades.
