Italy’s Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli will serve as the dramatic backdrop for Viper Niza Racing’s next big challenge as the team gears up for its debut at the prestigious 12 Hours of Misano, set for 23–24 May 2025. With no prior racing experience on the track, the team approaches this round of the world endurance sportscar series with a mix of anticipation and calculated preparation.

Widely recognized as a MotoGP venue and home of the San Marino Grand Prix, Misano is only recently making its mark in endurance sportscar racing. This year marks just the second time the 12-hour race will take place on the 4.226km circuit, which boasts 16 corners and a layout known for its fast straights, technical sections, and narrow overtaking opportunities.

“We’ve never raced at Misano before, so this will be a completely new challenge for us,” said Douglas Khoo, lead driver and Team Principal of Viper Niza Racing. “The circuit is relatively flat and quite narrow, with only subtle elevation changes—clearly more optimized for motorcycles. Overtaking will be tricky, so precise driving will be key.”

To prepare, the Malaysian team is dedicating extensive time to race simulators and reviewing on-board footage from previous events. “We’re studying the braking zones and understanding which corners can be taken flat out,” Khoo added. “Every bit of data helps when you’re heading into the unknown.”

Khoo will share driving duties with Dominic Ang and Melvin Moh, backed by an all-Malaysian crew. Despite the novelty of Misano, Viper Niza Racing arrives in Italy on the back of a promising 2025 season. The team placed 6th overall and 4th in the GT3 class at the Michelin 12 Hours of Spa Francorchamps, and they claimed a GT AM Masters class victory along with a 2nd place in the GT AM class at the Motul 12 Hours of Sepang.

The team’s Mercedes-AMG GT3 EVO will take to Misano in its current configuration, with only standard part replacements due to wear and tear. “We’re not making any upgrades. The real setup work begins once we start turning laps in practice,” Khoo explained.

The Misano circuit, originally opened in 1969 and expanded over the years, provides a stern test for any team. The layout demands versatility from both car and driver, blending high-speed sections with slower, technical corners. Its fastest lap by a traditional race car currently stands at 1:48.50, set by a Porsche GT4RS.

In last year’s inaugural 12 Hours of Misano, Audi dominated the race, clinching both the GT3 and GT3 AM classes with their R8 LMS GT3 EVO II. Viper Niza Racing hopes to shake up the order this year and challenge for a podium spot.

The team is supported by Motul, along with Endless & Momentum Autoparts, IWC as the Official Watch Brand, and Jen Orchard Gateway Hotel Singapore.