The Toyota Gazoo Racing Vios Cup is an event long-loved by local racing fans in the Philippines and is the longest-running one-make race in the country.
Since its inception in 2014, Toyota’s premier one-make-race series has consistently fueled the racing ambitions of drivers across the country. In the later years, Toyota started tapping sim racers as well and gave them a chance to experience the real thing at Clark International Speedway.
As it celebrates its 10th year, the TGR Vios Cup rebrands to the Toyota Gazoo Racing Philippine Cup.
What’s New
At its core, the TGR Philippine retains much of the racing festival spirit. The season still has three legs, each held at the Clark International Speedway in Pampanga.
The first leg took place on July 13, followed by the second leg on September 28, and the third leg is scheduled for November 9.
Toyota Gazoo Racing Philippine Cup introduces new facing formats: Sprint Race (formerly Circut Championship) and Endurance Race (formerly the Grand Prix). The Autocross challenge is said to return at a later date.
While the event saw the return of many familiar faces in the racing scene, a newly formed Novice class composed of influencers, celebrities, and local motoring media were given the chance to take on the track.
And unlike the Vios Cup where each class raced against each other, Toyota had all the racers go toe-to-toe on the track which added to the excitement of the races.
The Drifting Exhibition saw two dancing Toyota GR86s tear up the track but this time, event-goers had the chance to ride shotgun and experience the waku doki thrill for themselves. Car Clubs were also given time to speed through the tracks.
A step forward for local motorsports
TGR Philippine Cup marks an exciting chapter in Philippine motorsports history. With its revamped format, live audience engagement, and focus on accessibility, it’s set to boost racing culture and ignite passion among fans and racers alike.
By rebranding and enhancing the event, Toyota is showing its dedication to developing motorsports talent in the country.
The TGR Philippine Cup acts as a platform for future champions, motivating young drivers to chase their racing dreams. With more enthusiasts joining the racing community, the whole motorsports scene in the Philippines stands to benefit.
In keeping the one-make-race format, where all drivers race using the locally-made Toyota Vios, the Philippine Cup shows loyalty to its roots while still ensuring everyone competes on equal footing.
Catch the next legs of the Toyota Gazoo Racing Philippine Cup happening on September 28, and November 9, 2024.
