The former Formula 1 test driver made the nation proud by fighting his way from the back of the grid to take second place on a borrowed car in the inaugural KL City GT Cup.
Naoki Yokomizo of Japan led from start to finish to win the flagship race of the KL City Grand Prix in 40:13.778.
Yokomizo emerged champion at the KL race. - Image from his Instagram account
The 32-year-old Fairuz ran his Lamborghini Gallardo into the wall during Saturday’s qualifying and it could not be repaired in time for the race.
Lamborghini Italy then came to his rescue by giving him a new Lamborghini Huracan, but he had to start from the back of the grid because of the change.
Fairuz clawed his way back to the front and was behind second-placed Malaysian Adrian D’ Silva, who was driving a Ferrari F458 GT3, with 10 laps to go.
But with six laps to go, Adrian had to slow down due to technical problems and was overtaken by Fairuz.
Yokomizo was too far ahead to catch but Fairuz, who finished in 40:49.879, was not complaining with the final outcome after struggling through the weekend.
“It was a tough weekend for us and I am happy all came out well. We had problems from day one. Our first practice was cancelled and I had the least track time among the drivers. I missed qualifying yesterday after my big shunt and I thought my weekend was over.
“I only got news this morning that I got a car on loan. In the race, I was not pushing and only drove like 70% as I just don’t want to have any problem with the car. It’s a great result for me,” said Fairuz.
Yokomizo was delighted to win the race and said he will be back to defend his title next year.
“It was an amazing finish for me. My car did not give me any problems. The track was bumpy but I love it.
“The crowd response was great too,” he said.
Out of the 16 cars, only nine managed to complete the race around Jalan Ampang, Jalan Sultan Ismail, Jalan Raja Chulan, Jalan Perak and Jalan P. Ramlee.
