The grand finale of the Porsche Esports Sprint Challenge Malaysia 2025 took place yesterday (June 8) at the iconic PETRONAS Sepang International Circuit, running alongside Rounds 6 and 7 of the Porsche Carrera Cup Asia. The atmosphere was charged with adrenaline as 30 finalists, across three age categories, took to the virtual grid after battling through a rigorous series of knockout stages.
Launched in 2024, the Porsche Esports Sprint Challenge has quickly become a premier platform for aspiring virtual racers. This year’s competition broke new ground by opening its doors to participants as young as 10 years old, divided into three distinct categories:
- Junior Dreamers (10–14 years old)
- Young Dreamers (15–17 years old)
- Driven Dreamers (18–25 years old)
The journey began in March, where hopefuls from across Malaysia were challenged to set their fastest lap times on the Motegi International Circuit. From these time trials, the top 30 racers in each category were selected from every Porsche Centre nationwide.
These top qualifiers advanced to the regional rounds, held at Porsche Centres in Ara Damansara, Johor Bahru, Penang, and Sungai Besi, where competitors tackled the Buriram International Circuit.
To closely mirror the intensity of real-world motorsport, all participants raced on high-end motion-simulated rigs, designed to replicate the authentic feel of a race car on a professional circuit. The top 10 performers from each Centre then advanced to the final qualifying round at Bangsar Shopping Centre, where families, fans, and sim racing enthusiasts gathered to cheer on their favourites.
The Race Day finale brought an electrifying conclusion to the competition, delivering a spectacle that had the crowd roaring with excitement. Parents, friends, and motorsport enthusiasts packed the Esports Arena, creating an atmosphere brimming with energy and anticipation.
The day kicked off with a pre-race briefing led by the Race Director, followed by a tense 15-minute qualifying session that set the stage for the much-anticipated final races. Each age category brought its own brand of drama and excitement, with virtual battles that showcased sharp strategy, daring overtakes, and intense wheel-to-wheel action.
As the finalists pushed their limits lap after lap, the arena buzzed with emotion—every twist, turn, and collision magnified by the pressure of a live audience. For the racers, it was more than just a contest of speed; it was a test of nerves, skill, and heart. Amidst the fierce competition, moments of sportsmanship and camaraderie stood out, capturing the true spirit of motorsport.
After an exhilarating series of races, nine podium finishers were crowned across the three competitive categories of the Porsche Esports Sprint Challenge Malaysia 2025. In the Driven Dreamers category, it was a family affair at the top as siblings Naquib Azlan and Nabil Azlan delivered a commanding performance to secure first and second place, respectively. Completing the podium was Zeth Yuen, who impressed with a strong third-place finish in his debut year in the senior age group, following a podium appearance in the Young Dreamers category last year.
The Young Dreamers final was equally thrilling. Dhevesh Geeva charged to a convincing victory, while Ethen Low and Nazyff Zain put up strong performances to claim second and third places, respectively.
In the Junior Dreamers category, the youngest racers delivered one of the most exciting finishes of the day. Aydrae Amit emerged victorious after a tense, neck-and-neck battle with Anson Yong, who finished just behind in second place. Jonas Tan, competing in his first-ever Esports Sprint Challenge, rounded out the podium in third.
Each category winner was awarded a prestigious challenge trophy and the ultimate reward—a Porsche Driving Experience, giving them a taste of real-world performance driving and recognition for their virtual racing excellence.
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