The 2025 Vios Challenge roared to life at the Petronas Sepang International Circuit with electrifying action across all three racing categories, setting the tone for a fiercely competitive season ahead. It was a weekend that belonged to the new generation, with young talents outpacing seasoned veterans in what was a clear showcase of Malaysia’s—and now Thailand’s—future racing stars.

One of the standout stories of the opening round was the international debut of 17-year-old Thai driver Varunchit Wattanathanakun, better known as Monai. Representing Ruk Team Nexzter PMC 52 in the Sporting Class, Monai made an impressive entrance, climbing to third place in Race 2 after a dramatic series of battles. Having started karting at nine and quickly rising through Thailand’s motorsports ranks, Monai now embraces a new chapter abroad, honing his skills on Malaysia’s world-class circuits as he eyes progression into the professional Super Sporting Class.

“Racing in Malaysia is a whole new experience,” said Monai. “Sepang’s layout—with its mix of fast corners, long straights, and elevation changes—pushes my limits as a driver. My goal this year is to sharpen my racecraft and take the next big step forward.”

Meanwhile, the Sporting Class witnessed a youth-driven revolution. Former Rookie Class champion Adam Mikail, freshly promoted to the Sporting Class with G-Mart Motorsport, stormed to a commanding win in Race 1, narrowly edging out fellow former rookie Jwan Hii. Taj Izrin Aiman, a virtual racing prodigy making his real-world racing debut, followed closely, proving the strength of the Toyota GAZOO Racing Malaysia Young Talent Development Program.

Race 2 in the Sporting Class was a rollercoaster. Veteran racer Dato’ Ken Foo led the early laps but soon found himself under siege from a train of hungry young drivers. Elson Lew capitalized on the chaos to seize victory, ahead of Taj Izrin, while Monai’s consistency earned him his first Vios Challenge podium after penalties reshuffled the results.

“It’s all about staying calm and consistent,” said Lew. “I waited for the right moments, and thankfully, it paid off.”

In the Super Sporting Class, professional drivers clashed fiercely. Laser Motor Racing’s Ady Rahimy dominated Race 1 from start to finish, but Race 2 saw former champion Mitchell Cheah rise from 8th on the grid to victory after a gutsy drive, with Wheelcorp’s Nabil Azlan also impressing with back-to-back podium finishes.

Cheah’s comeback was particularly inspiring: “We faced challenges in Race 1, but the team worked tirelessly to fix the car. I’m hungry for more wins this season.”

The Rookie Class—where young talents are nurtured—offered some of the weekend’s most intense competition. Ian James, a simulator racing star, led a commanding performance in Race 2, crossing the line 13 seconds ahead of his closest rival. Joining him on the podium were Aydan Khaliq and Genevieve Ooi, the class’s only female driver, who fought through the field to claim an uplifting third-place finish.

Genevieve reflected on her climb: “Staying calm and avoiding trouble was key. I knew the opportunities would come if I kept my focus.”

The Vios Challenge continues to be a powerful platform for young drivers transitioning from karting and simulation into full-fledged motorsport careers. Since its debut, it has captured over 30 million viewers, with its 2025 edition promising even greater drama over four rounds of racing.

With raw passion, burgeoning talent, and fierce competition, the opening round of the 2025 Vios Challenge has set the stage for a season where youth leads the charge—and veterans will have their hands full keeping up.

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