Potenciano to suit up for SMB-MP Turbo

Multi-titled race driver Mike Potenciano will suit up for the San Miguel Beer-MP Turbo Team Philippines when the 2004 Asian Formula BMW Series resumes at the Bira International Circuit in Pattaya, Thailand on July 11.

Potenciano’s San Miguel Beer-backed campaign is expected to add color and spunk to the Philippine cause in the region’s most prestigious single-seater series. Potenciano will be joining top junior drivers Tyson Sy, Dado Peña and lady rider Gaby de la Merced in races set during the weekend.

The motorsport icon took time to thank his major sponsor and underscore his chances in Thailand.

"I’m really excited over the opportunity to represent the country once again in all international racing event. With San Miguel’s support, we just might be able to pull off a few surprises and hopefully make a podium finish," said Potenciano.

"However, I believe that it won’t be a stroll-in-the-park for anyone since the field will include some of the region’s most promising driving talents," he added.

Series leader Marchy Lee, who swept the series’ first four rounds staged in Bahrain and Sepang, is the heavy favorite to rule the races set this weekend.

The Hongkong-based Chinese is backed up by Team Meritus, the prolific Malaysian motosport team responsible for boosting the racing careers of several prominent Asian champions including current BAR Honda Formula One campaigner Takuma Sato.

Being one of the more senior drivers in the series, Potenciano will rely on his vast racing experience to turn the tables on his youthful rivals.