Starting from fifth on the grid, Al Fardan beat challenges from BMW Junior James Grunwell (17/Team Meritus), and polesitter, Australian Sam Abay (18/Team ERain), who finished second and third respectively. Kiwi Earl Bamber (Team Meritus) finished fourth and second fastest Rookie, followed by the second placed BMW Junior, Daniel Ricciardo (16/Eurasia Motorsport).

Al Fardan, who contested two seasons in the series but had not been at the wheel of the car since the end of last year, found his Formula BMW Asia form when it mattered. "It went just the way I’d planned it. It was one of my best races ever. I admit I did make one mistake, but I had a good start and felt very confident."

Both Grunwell and Abay admitted they had learned much over the course of the 10-lap race. "It was a learning experience for both of us. I didn’t get a good start, so I know I have to work on that. I made a mistake and went off at the exit of turn six," Grunwell said.

Abay was also upbeat and thrilled to be on the podium after this maiden race. "You could really see Hamed’s experience shine through. You learn so much from each race and you just have to grab all you can and carry it to the next one."

Al Fardan was on a charge right from the lights, working his way through the field to take the lead early on. However, the chasing pack was right behind him with Abay leading Grunwell until the closing stages when the Australian made a mistake and the Thai sailed through to take second place.