Porsche Malaysia recently brought virtual racing to life with an adrenaline-charged track experience for the winners of the Porsche Esports Sprint Challenge Malaysia 2025. Hosted at the PETRONAS Sepang International Circuit, the event gave podium finishers the rare chance to trade their gaming rigs for the driver’s seat of real Porsche models—testing their Esports-honed reflexes in acceleration, braking, and slalom challenges within a safe, controlled environment.
“Motorsport has always been central to Porsche’s DNA. Today, simulation racing is no longer just a game—it’s an essential pathway for driver development,” said Christopher Hunter, Chief Executive Officer of Sime Darby Auto Performance. “Esports opens doors for young talents, and initiatives like the Porsche Esports Sprint Challenge Malaysia give them a meaningful platform to nurture their passion. We hope experiences like this inspire winners to keep chasing their motorsport dreams, whether virtually or on the track.”
The action-packed day began with dynamic driving sessions that highlighted the real-world relevance of simulator training. Behind the wheel of the Porsche Cayenne, winners maneuvered through tight slalom runs, where the SUV’s Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) system revealed its agility in sharp cone formations.
The thrills escalated with the Porsche 911 Carrera. Equipped with Launch Control, the sports car surged from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.1 seconds, powered by 290 kW (394 PS) and 450 Nm of torque. Winners also discovered the Carrera’s razor-sharp braking capabilities, demonstrating how precision and control remain central to Porsche performance.
Guided laps around Sepang capped the programme, with participants stepping into the all-electric Macan and Taycan. With instructors riding shotgun, they tackled Sepang’s iconic turns—translating their simulator reflexes into real track finesse.
Adding to the excitement, winners were treated to high-speed taxi rides that pushed the boundaries of adrenaline. Adult participants buckled into the Porsche 911 GT3 Cup with Sime Motors Racing driver Hugo Ellis at the wheel, while younger winners enjoyed equally thrilling laps in a 911 Carrera piloted by two-time Le Mans 24 Hours champion Earl Bamber. For many, the moment engines roared down pit lane was the perfect blend of nerves and exhilaration.
A standout moment came when Naquib Azlan, podium winner in the Driven Dreamers category (ages 18–25), was invited to undergo a talent assessment in the Porsche 911 GT3 Cup car. Already accomplished in both sim racing and competitive motorsport, Naquib’s session underscored how virtual experience can sharpen skills transferable to professional racing.
The event perfectly showcased Porsche’s commitment to blending tradition with innovation—bridging the gap between Esports and motorsport. For the winners, it wasn’t just a reward, but a glimpse of what dedication and passion can achieve: turning virtual dreams into real-world racing reality.