Toyota is ready to take the end of the first half of 2025 to a whole new level
Malaysia’s premier one-make saloon car racing series, the VIOS Challenge, is set to reach new heights as it makes its international debut during the long-awaited return of the AUTOBACS SUPER GT Series to Malaysia. This marks the first Malaysian round of the SUPER GT in 12 years, with UMW Toyota Motor and TGR Malaysia proudly stepping in as the Title Sponsor.
Scheduled to take place from 26 to 28 June 2025 at the iconic Petronas Sepang International Circuit, the event is expected to draw over 40,000 spectators and captivate a global broadcast and digital audience of over 162 million viewers.
Moreover, as one of the two featured support races during the SUPER GT weekend, the VIOS Challenge will adopt a special 1-hour endurance format, replacing its usual 30-minute sprint race. This extended race will be run on the full 5.543km Sepang Circuit and is open to all three VIOS Challenge competition classes:
- Super Sporting Class (Professional drivers)
- Sporting Class (Amateur drivers)
- Rookie Class (Young development drivers)
Of particular note are five rising stars from the Toyota GAZOO Racing Young Talent Development Programme, who will be competing on an international platform in only their second race of the season. Since its inception in 2021, the program has produced 22 graduates, with several already achieving national and international success.
On top of that, Datuk Ravindran K., President of UMWT said, “This momentous occasion reflects our commitment to growing Malaysian motorsports and empowering local talent. The VIOS Challenge has proven to be a successful platform for developing skilled drivers. Competing alongside SUPER GT teams aligns with our GAZOO Racing philosophy—pushing limits to develop not only cars but people.”
Looking ahead, Toyota plans to further expand its motorsports footprint by forming Toyota GAZOO Racing Malaysia (TGRMY), a factory team aimed at regional competition. This move will provide a clear progression pathway for Malaysian drivers.
Now in its 8th season, the VIOS Challenge remains one of Malaysia’s most accessible racing series, offering:
- RM800,000 in prize money
- A grid of 36 drivers from Malaysia, Singapore, and Thailand
- Competition in identical 1.5L Toyota VIOS with 5-speed manual transmissions
Expect thrilling, close-combat racing as skill, not machinery, determines victory. For tickets and event details, visit www.supergtmalaysia.com.
