Starting from the second row, the Asian rookie had to defend his hard-earned second position in the overall point standings by choosing to race the demanding three-hour endurance event without the aid of a second driver.
A dramatic turn of events occurred when German rival Alfred Hilger hit Barretto from behind twice, damaging his rear wheel and bumper and after a lap, pushing him off the track and into the grass. Barretto remained focused and pulled away, eventually besting the German by 13 laps.
The Filipino’s victory will decide the final point standings in the championship for the overall title.
On the podium, the Philippine national anthem was played and the Philippine flag blew proudly in the wind.
Barretto said, "This is an important victory for myself, the team, and the people who supported our campaign all the way."
Hailed by the European press as the Asian sensation, Barretto still faces local sponsorship problems. He drives a 300 horsepower BMW M3 prepared by GTS Motorsport. Barretto is partnered by Castrol Magnatec, Arce Dairy, Servo Aerotrade, Casio G-Shock, No Fear, Spy Optics, and the Being Human Foundation.