New academy hunts for talent
Drivers excelling in GR Supra GT4 EVO2s next season in New Zealand and Australia could be selected to take part in GR Customer Racing’s future GT3 activities.
GR Customer Racing’s existing global efforts to promote stars of the future will be expanded and integrated into broader GT activities via its newly launched young driver academy.
The initiative will provide a pathway to identify and promote prospects in both countries by putting them on a development ladder that will go from GT4 cars, such as the GR Supra GT4 EVO2, to the top of GT3 competition.
The Australasian effort will be overseen by Toyota Gazoo Racing NZ (TGRNZ) with candidates competing Toyota Gazoo’s simulator, pictured.
The first two drivers to benefit will be part of the first evaluation for the Oceania region between June and July.
Selection for the first YDA is already complete and the successful candidates will compete in simulator sessions hosted at Toyota Racing’s facility in Cologne, Germany, where performance will be evaluated based on lap times, consistency and technical feedback.
Drivers who excel in this phase will then be invited to Motorland Aragon for an on track test in a GT3 to showcase their speed, adaptability, teamwork and capacity to improve through coaching. Those who succeed may ultimately be recommended for GR Customer Racing’s future GT3 efforts.
All drivers already confirmed to race with a GR Supra GT4 EVO2 in 2026 were automatically entered into an initial evaluation process. For the next academy intake, high performers aged between 17 and 27 can also apply if they meet FIA GT3 licence, categorisation and eligibility requirements.
Applicants currently racing a GR Supra GT4 received priority access to the development pathway and this philosophy will continue. By competing in GT4 championships, they take part under the scrutiny of GR Customer Racing experts, which will increase their opportunities.
“This programme will appeal to the increasing number of drivers racing in GR Supra GT4 cars in Oceania,” says Nicolas Caillol, TGRNZ’s motorsport manager. “It will be more relevant to those targeting future international GT3 activities. The evaluation process will be fully data-driven at every stage.
“GR Customer Racing will define performance targets, and use advanced simulation methods and structured on-track analytics, to ensure progression is transparent and based on measured criteria.”
GR Customer Racing’s long standing commitment to nurturing talent ensures participants will develop their technical knowledge, physical condition and professional skills as well as their on track performance. This philosophy will give drivers the potential to sustainably progress through every level of GT competition.
The YDA emphasises TGR’s commitment to contributing to the future of global GT competition. It is designed to evolve further in coming years to provide a structured pathway for aspiring drivers to progress towards a professional career with GR Customer Racing. To find out more, email youngdriveracademy@toyota-racing.com
