Super GT Racing: Asia’s Premier Racing Series Explored

Updated On: February 14, 2024 by     What is Esports? Team  

Fancy a taste of breakneck speeds and heart-racing excitement? Join us as we delve into the world of Super GT Racing, Japan’s adrenaline-packed series that has been setting pulses racing since 1993.

In this blog post, we’re slipping into the driver’s seat to offer you an up-close and personal glimpse at this spellbinding competition, where customised supercars battle it out for supremacy.

Brace yourself, it’s going to be a turbocharged ride!

Key Takeaways

• Super GT Racing is a top-tier motorsport event in Asia, featuring two classes: the high-performance GT500 and the diverse GT300, each offering unique challenges and showcasing driving excellence.
• The series is governed by the Japan Automobile Federation (JAF), ensuring strict adherence to regulations for safety and fair play, with teams competing under a framework that promotes professional excellence.
• The 2023 season introduces environmentally conscious changes such as carbon-neutral fuel and longer-life tyres, reflecting a commitment to sustainability while maintaining competitive racing.
• Several notable teams like Team Kunimitsu, TOM’S, NISMO, Lexus Team SARD along with accomplished drivers including Ronnie Quintarelli and Yuji Tachikawa contribute to the electrifying atmosphere of the races.
• With an eight-race schedule across domestic venues like Okayama International Circuit and international circuits including Sepang in Malaysia, fans can expect edge-of-the-seat action from this global racing championship.

Overview of Super GT Racing

Super GT Racing is Japan’s premier racing series, featuring grand touring cars in a highly competitive and thrilling motor racing championship. Sanctioned by the Japan Automobile Federation (JAF), the series consists of two categories: GT500 and GT300, showcasing some of the best drivers and teams in Asia.

History of the series

We’ve witnessed the Super GT racing series evolve since its inception in 1993. It started as the Zen Nihon GT Senshuken, quickly establishing itself with heart-racing competitions that featured heavily-modified production cars.

The aim was to create a spectacle where speed and engineering excellence took centre stage, housing it all under one of Asia’s most thrilling motorsport championships.

As the years passed, Super GT grew into a global phenomenon, attracting attention beyond Japan’s borders. Set apart by its high-performance sports cars in the prestigious GT500 class, this championship became a battleground for some of the best drivers in the world.

Each season brought new challenges and innovations, propelling Super GT towards its goal of becoming the premier closed wheel racing series on earth.

Sanctioning by JAF

The Super GT series is sanctioned by the Japan Automobile Federation (JAF), a key aspect that underlines its credibility and adherence to high standards of racing. This affiliation ensures that the series maintains strict regulations and safety protocols, providing a secure environment for both drivers and spectators.

As an internationally recognised governing body, JAF’s involvement further solidifies the reputation of Super GT as one of Asia’s premier racing series.

Teams and drivers participating in this globally renowned championship operate within the framework set out by JAF, ensuring fair play and competitive racing at all times. The sanctioning by JAF also emphasises the commitment to upholding professional excellence and promoting exceptional sportsmanship throughout the Super GT season.

Categories and classes (GT500, GT300)

The Japan Automobile Federation (JAF) also governs the categories and classes of the Super GT series. It consists of two main categories: GT500 and GT300, each with its own unique features and challenges.

1. GT500 Class – This premier class showcases high-performance sports cars exclusively built for teams by leading Japanese manufacturers. The category features heavily-modified production cars, competing in a fiercely contested championship.
2. GT300 Class – This class includes cars that are scheduled to be commercially available or are based on production models. The variety of vehicles in this class adds an exciting dimension to the series, offering a diverse range of cars and driving styles.
3. Notably, both classes contribute to the competitiveness and diversity of racing in the Super GT series, providing thrilling action for motorsport enthusiasts around Asia and beyond.
4. Additionally, with skilled drivers navigating these challenging classes, each race is filled with adrenaline-pumping moments and displays of exceptional driving talent.
5. As the 2023 Super GT Series approaches, anticipation grows for another round of exhilarating competition in both the GT500 and GT300 classes.

Changes in Regulations and Teams

The 2023 Super GT Series is set to bring some exciting changes in regulations, with a focus on carbon-neutral fuel and longer-life tires. These changes will have an impact on team strategies and driver performance, making for an exhilarating season ahead.

2023 Super GT Series preview

The 2023 Super GT Series is set to bring an electrifying mix of high-speed thrills and intense competition. As the premier grand touring car championship in Asia, this year’s series promises to be even more exhilarating with the introduction of carbon-neutral fuel and longer-life tires.

Notable teams and drivers are gearing up for an epic battle on the track, vying for victory in both the GT500 and GT300 classes. With a jam-packed eight-race schedule across domestic venues and international circuits, fans can expect edge-of-the-seat action as top performers strive to leave their mark on this global racing series.

In addition to witnessing fierce battles between seasoned drivers, spectators can look forward to admiring heavily-modified production cars alongside those soon-to-be commercially available.

Impact of carbon-neutral fuel and longer-life tires

Manufacturers and teams in the Super GT Series are implementing carbon-neutral fuel and longer-life tires to address environmental concerns while enhancing performance. The adoption of carbon-neutral fuel reduces the emission of harmful greenhouse gases, contributing to a more sustainable racing environment.

Additionally, longer-life tires not only promote cost-effectiveness but also reduce the number of discarded tire compounds during races, aligning with eco-friendly practices.

By embracing environmentally conscious initiatives such as carbon-neutral fuel and longer-life tires, Super GT is setting a positive example for motorsports globally. These advancements demonstrate that high-performance racing can coexist with environmental responsibility, inspiring other racing series to follow suit while introducing innovations that push the boundaries of motorsport technology.

Notable teams and drivers

The Super GT series boasts a roster of notable teams and drivers, adding excitement and flair to the races. Here’s a glimpse into some of the prominent names in the championship:

1. Team Kunimitsu: Known for their partnership with Honda, this team has achieved multiple victories in the GT500 class and continues to be a force on the track.
2. TOM’S: Representing Toyota, this team has a rich history in Super GT and consistently showcases strong performances with their skilled drivers.
3. NISMO: The motorsport division of Nissan is synonymous with high-level competition, fielding seasoned drivers who strive for excellence in every race.
4. Lexus Team SARD: This renowned team has demonstrated exceptional technical prowess, producing competitive cars that challenge for podium finishes.
5. Ronnie Quintarelli: A familiar name in GT racing, this Italian-born driver has made significant contributions to the series and remains a formidable contender.
6. Yuji Tachikawa: A veteran driver with an impressive track record, Tachikawa’s expertise behind the wheel has earned him widespread respect within the Super GT community.

Vehicle and Entrant Changes

Vehicle modifications and advancements have been a key focus in the Super GT Racing series, with new entrants constantly bringing fresh competition to the track. To find out more about the exciting developments in vehicle and entrant changes, keep reading our blog!

Vehicle modifications and advancements

The Super GT series showcases heavily-modified production cars and vehicles that are slated to hit the market. These cars undergo significant enhancements, including aerodynamic tweaks, engine upgrades, and weight reductions to enhance overall performance.

The premier GT500 Class features high-performance sports cars built specifically for teams by Japanese manufacturers. These modifications result in incredibly powerful machines capable of achieving exhilarating speeds on the track.

Teams continually strive to push the boundaries of vehicle advancements, focusing on areas such as suspension technology, tire compounds, and fuel efficiency for maximum performance gains.

With the 2023 Super GT Series preview promising innovations like carbon-neutral fuel and longer-life tires, car manufacturers aim to navigate these changes while ensuring their vehicles remain at the forefront of technological advancement.

New entrants into the series

The 2023 Super GT Series has seen the addition of several new entrants, bringing fresh competition and excitement to the racing series. These new entrants have diversified the field and are poised to challenge the established teams for top positions on the leaderboard.

1. A prominent addition to the series is Team SARD, entering with a Toyota GR Supra GT500. This renowned team brings extensive racing experience and technological expertise to the championship.
2. Another notable newcomer is LM Corsa, debuting with a Lexus LC500 GT500. The entry of this team adds further depth to the competition, promising thrilling battles on the track.
3. R’Qs Motor Sports has joined the series with a Honda NSX-GT GT500, marking their inaugural participation in Super GT Racing. Their inclusion enhances the diversity of manufacturers represented in the championship.
4. D’station Racing will showcase their prowess with an Aston Martin Vantage GT3 in the GT300 class, showcasing a blend of performance and engineering excellence as they vie for success in this category.
5. The introduction of Arnage Racing heralds their first appearance in Super GT Racing, fielding a BMW M6 GT3 in the competitive GT300 class, stirring anticipation among fans and experts alike for their performance on track.

Mid-season changes and adjustments

1. Introduction of new technical regulations to enhance competitiveness and safety features.
2. Teams making strategic driver changes and reconfiguring vehicle setups to improve performance.
3. Advancements in vehicle modifications aimed at optimising speed, handling, and fuel efficiency.
4. Expansion of team rosters with additional entrants joining the series, bringing fresh competition.

2023 Calendar and Results

The 2023 Super GT Series will feature an eight-race schedule, spanning across both domestic venues and international circuits. From the season opener to the final showdown, each race promises adrenaline-pumping action and fierce competition.

Eight-race schedule

The 2023 Super GT Series features an exciting eight-race schedule that takes place at both domestic venues and international circuits. Each race offers thrilling competition and showcases the skill and precision of the drivers and teams. The schedule includes a mix of renowned tracks and venues, providing a diverse and challenging environment for the competitors.

1. The season kicks off with an exhilarating race at a prominent Japanese circuit, setting the stage for intense battles and strategic manoeuvring by the drivers.
2. Following the opening race, the series ventures to international circuits, bringing a global flavour to the championship as teams navigate new tracks and adapt to different racing conditions.
3. As the season progresses, fans can anticipate high-octane action at each venue, with top-notch driving talent on display throughout the tightly contested races.
4. The variety of circuits in the schedule adds an element of unpredictability, testing the adaptability and expertise of both drivers and teams in diverse racing scenarios.
5. The series culminates with a climactic finale at a prestigious location, where championship aspirations are realised or dashed amidst heart-stopping drama on the track.
6. Beyond showcasing thrilling racing battles, each event in the schedule provides spectators with a captivating spectacle filled with speed, skill, and adrenaline-pumping moments.
7. The combination of domestic and international races ensures that Super GT enthusiasts enjoy a riveting blend of traditional home-grown excitement alongside captivating global showdowns.
8. With its diverse array of venues and challenges, the eight-race Super GT Series calendar promises an action-packed spectacle that will captivate motorsport fans around the world.

Domestic venues and international circuits

• The series kicks off at the Okayama International Circuit, known for its challenging layout and long straights.
• It then moves to the iconic Fuji Speedway, set against the stunning backdrop of Mount Fuji, providing a visually striking setting for intense race action.
• The Suzuka Circuit is another highlight on the calendar, famous for its demanding corners and historical significance in motorsport.
• Super GT also ventures overseas to race at international circuits such as Sepang International Circuit in Malaysia, showcasing the global appeal of the championship.
• Other international circuits like Chang International Circuit in Thailand and Autopolis in Japan offer unique challenges that test drivers’ abilities on different tracks.

Recent race highlights and outcomes

As we delve into the world of high-octane excitement, the 2023 Super GT Series has delivered outstanding racing moments and dramatic outcomes. Each race has been a testament to the skill and dedication of the drivers, the innovative strategies of the teams, and the intense competition that defines this premier racing series. Below, we encapsulate the highlights and outcomes of recent races in a concise HTML table format for our audience of game experts and gamer novices.

Race Number	Event	Venue	Winning Team	Winning Car
1	Okayama GT 300km Race	Okayama International Circuit	Team LeMans	Lexus LC500
2	Fuji GT 500km Race	Fuji Speedway	NISMO	Nissan GT-R NISMO GT500
3	Suzuka GT 300km Race	Suzuka Circuit	ARTA	Honda NSX-GT
4	Motegi GT 250km Race	Twin Ring Motegi	Cerumo	Toyota GR Supra GT500

We eagerly anticipate the next race in the series, where teams and drivers will continue to push the boundaries of speed and ingenuity on the racetrack. Now, let’s shift gears and explore some of the exciting events and features that further distinguish Super GT Racing as Asia’s top-tier motorsport competition.

Exciting Events and Features

Discover the thrill of other popular races within the Super GT series and uncover hidden gems and insights that will enhance your appreciation for this premier racing championship.

From top performers to extraordinary achievements, there is so much excitement waiting to be explored in this exhilarating world of motorsport.

Other popular races in the series

Unveiling hidden treasures and insights

Super GT racing series hides a trove of intriguing facts and stories that add depth to the competition. From the challenges faced by veteran drivers in the GT500 Class to the behind-the-scenes work on heavily-modified production cars, there’s a wealth of hidden insights waiting to be discovered.

As we delve into these unexplored aspects, we gain a richer understanding of what makes Super GT one of Asia’s premier racing series.

By examining these lesser-known details, game experts and novices alike can uncover a new layer of appreciation for the intricacies of Super GT racing. The series’ blend of tradition and innovation offers not only thrilling races but also an abundance of hidden treasures waiting to be unveiled.

Top performers and achievements

Unveiling hidden treasures and insights into Super GT Racing allows us to appreciate the top performers and achievements in this premier racing series.

1. Evasive Motorsport: The team’s impressive performance on the track, coupled with their technical innovations, has made them a force to be reckoned with in the GT300 class.
2. Ronnie Quintarelli: A seasoned driver whose skill and consistency have placed him among the elite in the GT500 class, making him a true standout.
3. Nissan GT-R: This car has consistently delivered exceptional speed and handling, earning it a reputation as one of the top performers in Super GT Racing.
4. Team Yokohama: Their remarkable evolution and consistent podium finishes showcase their determination and ingenuity in the competitive world of Super GT Racing.
5. Lexus LC 500: Boasting outstanding aerodynamics and power, this vehicle has continuously demonstrated its prowess on various circuits, solidifying its place among the best in the series.
6. Kohei Hirate: His remarkable talent behind the wheel has led to numerous victories and commendable performances, establishing him as a key player in the competitive landscape of Super GT Racing.
7. Honda NSX-GT: With its advanced engineering and reliability under high-stakes racing conditions, this machine continues to achieve remarkable results, reflecting Honda’s commitment to excellence in motorsport.

Conclusion

Get ready to be captivated by the thrill and excitement of Super GT Racing! Explore the heart-pounding action as world-class drivers push their high-performance machines to the limits.

Discover how this premier series continues to evolve, setting new standards for motorsport excellence. Feel the adrenaline rush as each race unfolds on iconic circuits, showcasing the pinnacle of sports car racing in Asia.

Experience the passion and innovation that make Super GT Racing a must-watch event for motorsport enthusiasts worldwide!

FAQs

1. What is Super GT Racing?

Super GT Racing is Asia’s premier supercar championship, where high-performance cars compete in intense races.

2. Where does the Super GT Racing series take place?

The racing series unfolds on various tracks across Asia, showcasing thrilling competitions between supercars.

3. Who organises the Super GT Racing events?

The SRO (Stéphane Ratel Organisation) plays a key role in overseeing and ensuring the successful execution of each event within the championship.

4. Can anyone join the Super GT races?

Super GT features professional drivers and teams who have met specific criteria, so it isn’t open for just anyone to enter; it requires qualifying through certain racing standards.