Can a privateer team with a small racing budget and plenty of passion take on the big boys in motorsports? If you look at the participating team names below and their drivers you would think …… hey ……. this is an impressive lineup of drivers and teams. Meanwhile, the above two drivers are the only privateers in the class going up against well-established teams and they took the podium despite all the weekend challenges.
Both men/drivers (mark darwin and luke netto) were on a mission to take on the big budget teams by putting together a budget friendly option and still compete and reach the podium.
They got help from various different parties/sponsors (Stark / DNT Tune / Halim Handling / LMS) and together as a well oiled team they were competing with the best teams and won.
The sponsors behind this successful mission:
DNT Tune – https://www.instagram.com/dnttune/
Stark Car Rentals – https://www.facebook.com/starkholdingsinncar
Lifestyle Motorsport – https://www.instagram.com/lmsports/
Halim Handling – https://www.instagram.com/halim_handling/
Netto & Magin LLC – https://nmlawcorp.com.sg/
Formerly known as the Malaysia Championship Series (MCS) and originally introduced as the Malaysia Super Series (MSS) in 2002, the MTCC rebrand marks a significant milestone in Malaysia’s motorsports evolution, ushering in a bold new identity for a championship focused on performance, professionalism, and passion.
MTCC is built on renewed commitment to deliver dynamic, competitive, and accessible motorsport experiences. With clearer technical regulations, a modernised race structure, and increased emphasis on talent development and fan engagement, MTCC is poised to elevate the profile of national racing while expanding its influence across the Southeast Asian region. PETRONAS Sepang International Circuit is committed to growing MTCC into a must-watchfixture on the regional motorsports calendar.
New Name, Clearer Direction, Bigger Grids
The MTCC 2026 season introduces a enhanced class framework designed to support
transparent, fair, and competitive racing:
MTC – Dedicated to turbocharged engines 1.6L and below, emphasising close, high-intensity racing.
TP2 (formerly SP1) and MT2 (formerly SP2) – Feature expanded eligibility to include newgeneration performance models such as the Toyota 86 and Subaru BRZ, enhancing the diversity and appeal of the grid.
MT2 – Implements pit stop time penalties for Grade A drivers to maintain performance balance and fair racing.
TP – Maintains its single-driver-only format, offering a true test of individual skill, strategy, and endurance.
