In a spectacular display of speed and endurance, the JLOC Lamborghini GT3, fitted with with a set of Yokohama Rubber's ADVAN tyres, clinched a resounding victory in the GT300 class at the final round of the 2023 AUTOBACS SUPER GT Series.
The event, held at the scenic Mobility Resort Motegi in Tochigi Prefecture on November 4 and 5, saw the Yokohama-equipped vehicle outpace its rivals in a thrilling conclusion to Japan's premier touring car racing series.
The winning duo of Takashi Kogure and Yuya Motojima delivered a masterclass in precision driving and strategic acumen. Starting from a strong position after securing second place in the qualifiers, Motojima took the helm for the initial stint. He swiftly maneuvered into the lead, setting the stage for Kogure to take over. Amid intense competition, Kogure demonstrated remarkable skill, fending off challengers and ultimately crossing the finish line in a triumphant first for both drivers in their respective SUPER GT categories.
The race also saw commendable performances from other Yokohama-backed teams. Notably, the DOBOT Audi R8 LMS, driven by the skilled pair of Yoshiaki Katayama and Roberto Merhi Muntan, finished in a respectable third place. This marked their third podium finish of the season, further underscoring the prowess of Yokohama's ADVAN tyres in top-tier motorsport.
Yokohama Rubber's involvement in motorsports is a key pillar of its three-year medium-term management plan, Yokohama Transformation 2023 (YX2023). The company aims to maximize sales of its high-value-added tyres, focusing on the ADVAN brand for performance vehicles, the GEOLANDAR line for SUVs and pickup trucks, and a range of winter tyres. Motorsports participation is not just a marketing strategy but a crucible for developing advanced tyre technologies that enhance the performance and reputation of the ADVAN and GEOLANDAR brands.
This year's SUPER GT Series has been a testament to the success of Yokohama's strategy. With ADVAN-equipped cars winning four of the eight races in the GT300 class, the brand has demonstrated its competitive edge in a challenging and dynamic racing environment.
As the curtain falls on the 2023 SUPER GT Series, Yokohama Rubber looks to the future, where its continued involvement in motorsports, from elite to grassroots levels, will drive innovation and excellence in tyre technology, benefiting not just racers but everyday drivers around the globe.
