De Oliveira joins KCMG for WTCR finale at Sepang

Brazil’s João Paulo de Oliveira will join the WTCR for the season’s finale, next week at Sepang International Circuit.
De Oliveira will drive a Honda Civic Type R run by the Hong Kong-based KCMG team. The Brazilian, who lists the Formula Nippon and All-Japan and German Formula 3 titles on an impressive CV, returns to top-level international Touring Car racing following a one-off appearance in the FIA WTCC in 2009 in Japan.

“It will be quite a challenge as I have never driven a TCR car before, but I hope to adapt quickly and be competitive throughout the weekend,” said de Oliveira. “My goal is to be able to challenge the more experienced drivers and fight for a top 10 position in the races.”

Paul Ip, Team Founder, said: “We are delighted to have João Paulo de Oliveira join KCMG for the WTCR finale in Malaysia. He has been a huge asset to the team during his Nürburgring 24 Hours and Kyalami 9 Hours appearances this year, not only with his speed, but for the in-depth feedback he provided.”

De Oliveira is one of four wildcards entered for WTCR Race of Malaysia, along with motorbike rider Hafizh Syahrin, the up-and-coming racer Mitchell Cheah and experienced campaigner Douglas Khoo.