The GAZOO Racing GR GT Cup Asia 2024 reached its electrifying conclusion in Kuala Lumpur as Malaysia’s Taj Izrin Aiman secured the top spot in a gripping race event that featured the region’s finest e-Motorsports competitors. Racers from Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, and Thailand competed at the Connexion Conference and Event Centre, with each racer aiming to become the Asia Champion and earn a place at the GR GT Global Finals in Amsterdam in December.
Aiman’s victory came after a series of intense races, earning him the Individual Championship title with a total of 65 points. In a closely fought contest, Indonesia’s Andika Rama, last year’s champion, claimed second place with 57 points. Rama’s compatriot, Moreno Pratama, made his first appearance on the podium, securing third place with 48 points. Indonesia’s consistent performance throughout the competition also ensured they won the Country Championship.
Intense races keep fans on edge
The tournament, played on the Gran Turismo 7 platform for PlayStation 5 and PlayStation 4, featured a mix of strategy, precision, and daring as drivers navigated world-renowned circuits. Fans were treated to thrilling action across three races at Sardegna Windmills, Nürburgring Grand Prix (GP), and Fuji International Speedway.
Jaja Ishibashi, General Manager of Toyota Motor Asia, praised the racers and the event, stating, “The heart of Toyota and GAZOO Racing GT Cup Asia has always been about fostering a community of excellence rooted in our Japanese practice of Kaizen, or Continuous Improvement. In this fifth edition, it is inspiring to witness not only the ongoing enthusiasm from our drivers and supporters but also the technological advancements driven by e-Motorsports.” Ishibashi also extended congratulations to the winners and wished them success in the Global Finals.
Panat Leelavansuk, General Manager of Toyota Motor Asia’s Vehicle Design Engineering Division, also expressed his excitement at the event. “The skill level on display from all participants is impressive. With the support of Razer’s headsets this year, racers were able to communicate with their teams, exchanging tips and strategies. Congratulations to all the winners—your talent is setting new benchmarks for competitive gaming!”
Highlights from the regional finals
The competition kicked off with a dramatic race at Sardegna Windmills, a rally-style track where the drivers showcased their talents in the GR Yaris. Indonesia’s Rama took an early lead and maintained his position throughout the race, eventually winning it. The race saw fierce battles, especially in the middle of the pack, with competitors from Malaysia, the Philippines, and Indonesia fighting for every second. Despite the close competition, all drivers finished the race within half a minute of each other.
In the second race at Nürburgring GP, the top eight finishers from the first race faced a reverse grid, where Rama started from eighth. Indonesia’s Pratama capitalised on this, finishing first in this race after consistently staying among the top three. Malaysia also performed well, with their drivers taking second and third place. Rain made the Nürburgring track even more challenging, leading to numerous position changes throughout the race.
The final race at Fuji International Speedway tested racers’ strategic abilities to the limit. Known for its tricky last sector, the Fuji track saw intense competition between Malaysia’s Iqbal Suji and Pratama for fourth place. Aiman’s smart choice of soft tyres early on allowed him to maintain the lead, and his strategic pit stop at the right moment secured his victory.
Following his win, Aiman expressed his joy, stating, “I’m truly at a loss for words. Although I faced technical difficulties last year, I’m overwhelmed with pride that my dedication and training have paid off.” Rama, who will join Aiman at the Global Finals, added, “Competing against Taj Aiman was an incredible challenge—he’s an exceptional competitor.”
Special awards were also handed out, with Aiman receiving the Driver of the Day title. The Philippines’ Russel Reyes was recognised for Best Racecraft Driver, while Rama earned the Fastest Race Pace award.
The top three finishers in the individual and team categories were rewarded with cash prizes of US$8,000, US$4,500, and US$3,000 respectively. With Aiman and Rama securing their places, they will now prepare to represent Asia at the GR GT Global Finals in Amsterdam on 6 December, competing against the world’s best e-Motorsports racers.
