
Vios Challenge joins Super GT weekend lineup at Sepang
KUALA LUMPUR: Vios Challenge, the popular one-make series, is set to make its international event debut as a support race for the Malaysian round of the Autobacs Super GT at Sepang Circuit on June 26-28.
The Vios Challenge will feature a special one-hour race format for the event instead of its usual 30-minute format.
The race will feature three categories - Super Sporting, for professional drivers, Sporting (amateur) and Rookie Class (young development drivers).
The Vios Challenge is currently in its eighth season and is one of the most accessible grassroots racing platforms in Malaysia.
UMW Toyota Motor president Datuk Ravindran Kurusamy said the series has played an important role in driving talent development in Malaysia.
"The Vios Challenge has served as a proven springboard for local talent, and to now have our drivers compete on the same stage as international teams at Super GT marks a defining milestone," said Ravindran in a statement released today (June 9).
"Looking ahead, Toyota intends to broaden our motorsports footprint by establishing a clearer progression path for our Toyota Gazoo Racing (TGR) Rookies, enabling their natural graduation into higher-level racing categories.
"Plans are underway to form Toyota Gazoo Racing Malaysia (TGRMY), a factory racing team to participate in regional motorsport series to strengthen Malaysia's presence in the sport."
The Vios Challenge is one of two support races for the Super GT weekend at Sepang, the other being the GR86 Cup Malaysia Series.
UMW Toyota Malaysia and TGR Malaysia are the title sponsor for the Malaysian round of Super GT which is making its return to Malaysian soil this year after a 12-year hiatus.
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