Bell sets sights on glory in Asia series

NEWCASTLE racing driver Matt Bell has revealed plans to set sail for the Far East this winter as he gears up for a return to the Asian Le Mans Series.

Along with his usual European series partner-in-crime, American Jim McGuire, as well as newly recruited Dutchman Kay Van Berlo, the United Autosports driver will compete in a four-round campaign in China, Japan, Thailand and Malaysia.

Bell is no stranger to the Asian racing ranks, having piloted a Lamborghini Huracan GT3 for the FFF Racing Team in his maiden appearance in the championship during the 2015-16 season.

But this time, he’ll be behind the wheel of a Ligier JS P3 when the United s q u a d makes its s e r i e s debut in S h a n g - hai at the end of t h i s month.

T h e news comes less than a week after a crash thwarted Bell and his team-mates’ attempt to get a third consecutive European Le Mans Series title in Portugal.

After being taken out by another car in the middle of the race, the team recovered to finish in seventh, but the championship challenge was over as he settled for third place overall.

And while the driver of the offending car was slapped with a penalty, Bell knew any hopes of a crown were over.