+ Domestic stars Ohta and De Oliveira feature amongst two taxi-themed entries
+ 2025 Pro-Am winner Tse also returns
Mercedes-AMG’s Intercontinental GT Challenge title contenders Luca Stolz and Maxime Martin will contest the Suzuka 1000km together with Craft-Bamboo Racing on September 11-13.
The factory duo, who shared ADAC Ravenol 24h Nürburgring victory in May, join home hero and Super Formula championship leader Kakunoshin Ohta in the first of two entries run by the Hong Kong squad.
Stolz lies second in the drivers’ standings. He’s a point clear of Martin but 17 behind Maro Engel whose DTM commitments prevent him from contesting IGTC’s penultimate round.
“The Suzuka Circuit is a fantastic, fast and demanding track that is incredibly enjoyable to drive,” he said. “At the same time, the often high temperatures and humidity push both drivers and teams to their limits. I've competed in this endurance classic three times so far and my best result has been a podium finish in the Pro-Am class back in 2018. Together with Mercedes-AMG Team Craft-Bamboo Racing, I hope to change that this year and build on my recent IGTC performances at the Nürburgring and Spa.”
Ohta is also au fait with the #77 Mercedes-AMG after racing it at the 1000km 12 months ago. The 27-year-old has dominated Super Formula this year, with four wins from eight starts helping establish a considerable championship lead.
Craft-Bamboo’s second entry partially reunites last year’s Summer Endurance Race Pro-Am winning combination. Kevin Tse returns to the team and car alongside 2024 Japan Cup champion Daisuke Yamawaki and Joao Paulo 'JP' de Oliveira whose extensive Japanese racing CV includes two Super GT300 titles and the Super Formula crown.
His experience with Craft-Bamboo stretches back to GT World Challenge Asia powered by AWS in 2024, while Yamawaki joined the team in the same series earlier this year at Fuji.
“I’m excited to be joining Craft Bamboo Racing for the Suzuka 1000km,” said the Brazilian. “We have a strong package and a good opportunity ahead of us, so my focus will be helping the team and my teammates get the maximum out of the weekend and put ourselves in a position to fight for a strong result.”
Both Mercedes-AMGs also feature special taxi-inspired liveries at Suzuka. The #77 Pro car is inspired by the yellow and green design once prevalent in Tokyo, while the red and silver ensemble that adorns #28 is a nod to those used in Hong Kong.