Toyota Gazoo Racing Malaysia Powers Into 2025 with Bold New Moves

UMW Toyota Motor is charging into 2025 with a reinvigorated vision for motorsports in Malaysia, as it launches a dynamic new era for Toyota GAZOO Racing (TGR) Malaysia. From a thrilling new VIOS Challenge season to groundbreaking initiatives in digital racing and talent development, the upcoming year promises to be the most action-packed yet.

“Motorsports is in our DNA,” said Datuk Ravindran K., President of UMW Toyota Motor. “Over the past nine years, we’ve witnessed how racing can unite people, nurture talent, and ignite passion. In 2025, we’re not just continuing that legacy — we’re accelerating it.”

The VIOS Challenge continues its reign as Malaysia’s premier racing spectacle, having amassed over 30 million viewers since its inception in 2017. The 2025 season, beginning April 25–27 at the iconic Sepang International Circuit, features four intense rounds and three distinct categories:

• Super Sporting Class: The pinnacle of competition for seasoned professionals
• Sporting Class: A competitive stage for passionate amateurs
• Rookie Class: A proving ground for rising stars

Drivers will compete in identical 4th-generation Vios race cars, putting the focus squarely on raw talent and strategic racecraft. With RM800,000 in prize money on the line and a grid of 36 racers, fans can expect tight battles, close finishes, and edge-of-the-seat drama.

Returning champions like Boy Wong and Mitchell Cheah headline the Super Sporting Class, while the Sporting Class sees fresh faces including four female racers and notable international entries. The Rookie Class continues to be a launchpad for young talent — with many graduates now making waves in top-tier categories.

Race Calendar 2025

The Toyota GAZOO Racing Young Talent Development Programme, launched in 2021, continues to be a powerhouse in nurturing the next generation of Malaysian racing stars. With over 180 applicants in 2025 alone, the program selects standout candidates based on personality, discipline, and technical aptitude.

This year’s Rookie Class boasts promising names like:

• Aydan Khaliq (18) – Professional karter
• Harkiesh Geeva (19) – Sim racer and recreational karter
• Justin Rahul Dev (21) – Full-time simulator racer
• Ian James (23) – Dedicated sim racing enthusiast
• Genevieve Ooi (20) – Emerging amateur racer

These young drivers exemplify the program’s goal: creating a clear pathway from virtual or grassroots racing to professional motorsport.

Toyota is also revolutionizing virtual racing in 2025 with the launch of the Toyota GR Malaysia eRacing Championship. Departing from its Gran Turismo roots, the championship now features pro-grade platforms like Assetto Corsa, RaceRoom, and iRacing — reflecting global standards in sim racing.

Qualifiers begin in May, followed by a high-octane finale. Additionally, Toyota will take eRacing to campuses nationwide, inspiring the next wave of digital motorsport talent.

“Malaysia has consistently produced world-class sim racers,” said Datuk Ravindran. “From Velocity to the GR GT Cup, our commitment has always been about pushing the envelope — both in technology and human potential.”

A major highlight is the integration of sim racing into the official development pipeline, as four-time GR GT Cup Malaysia champion Taj Izrin Aiman joins the driver development ranks after representing Asia at the 2024 World Finals.

Beyond the track, Toyota’s vision for mobility goes deeper than speed — it’s about empowerment, inclusivity, and opportunity. Whether nurturing grassroots talent, expanding virtual access, or backing community initiatives, Toyota GAZOO Racing Malaysia is racing toward a more connected and inspired future.

Because at TGR Malaysia, when we Move Your World, we move it together.

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