After announcing his plans to take part in the Iberian Supercars Endurance, Orlando Batina is now confirming Sérgio Azevedo as his teammate in the BMW M4 GT4 (F82) for the upcoming season.
While the Aveiro driver had confirmed his entry in the series with his BMW entered in the GT4 Pro category by Batina Racing and technically assisted by Bastos Sport, he had not yet revealed who would join him as his teammate.
The choice ultimately came down to Sérgio Azevedo, who, in addition to their rivalry already demonstrated in other categories, shares a genuine friendship with Batina.
"I met Orlando at the KIA Picanto GT Cup, and since then, we became friends. It was natural that he invited me to his project, which includes competing in the Campeonato de Portugal de Velocidade and Supercars Endurance. They are two very strong racing series, with a high competitive level, and it is very appealing to take this step in my career. This was determinant for me to embrace this challenge. Besides that, the BMW M4 GT4 is a fantastic car with outstanding performances, which makes this season even more exciting", Sérgio Azevedo pointed out.
The Cascais native started in motorsports racing in classic rallies but entered circuit racing through the KIA Picanto GT Cup, having secured four top-six results in four events, and won seventh place in the Pro class in 2019.
Talking about this new challenge, Sérgio Azevedo said, "The drivers here are some of the best in the Iberian Peninsula, so we know that the races will be very competitive and with great fights. I think the most important thing is to evolve and learn - it's our first year with a GT car. Even for the team, which will require a period of adaptation. It will also be important to do our best but without taking risks and to enjoy the driving pleasure that these cars provide since it is also important to have fun with motor racing”.
The Autódromo Internacional do Algarve hosts the opening round of the 2023 Iberian Supercars Endurance on May 5 & 7.
