Reigning GT World Challenge Asia Bob Yuan and Leo Ye Hongli delivered a commanding performance to kick off their title defence, storming to victory in the 2025 season opener at the Sepang International Circuit.
Driving for Origine in a Porsche 911 GT3 R, the Chinese duo started from third on the grid but surged to the front, crossing the finish line eight seconds clear of their closest rivals. Their win marks Origine’s third consecutive triumph at Sepang, reaffirming the team’s dominance at the Malaysian circuit and building strong momentum for another championship push.
Despite a front-row lockout by Audi’s Silver-class crews, misfortunes struck both entries, opening the door for Yuan and Ye to seize control of the race. The Phantom Racing Porsche of Dorian Boccolacci and 2023 champion Anthony Liu capitalized to finish second overall, while Team KRC’s BMW pairing of Tony Ruan and Maxime Oosten claimed third and took the Silver-Am class victory.
Meanwhile, Franky Cheng and James Yu, who started on pole, had to settle for fifth overall after losing ground but managed to secure maximum points in the Silver class. Just ahead of them in fourth were JMR’s Prince Jefri Ibrahim and Alexander Sims, who showed consistent pace throughout.
Further down the field, solo Am driver Ben Porter delivered an outstanding performance in AMAC’s Porsche, dominating the Am class and finishing ninth overall, underlining his credentials as a serious contender in the category.
With this win, Yuan and Ye extended their winning streak, having closed last season with a championship-clinching victory in Shanghai. Their return to the top step of the podium in Sepang signals that the champions are back—and still the team to beat in 2025.
Credir Photo : GTWC
