Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) held its first-ever eSports racing series, the Toyota Gazoo Racing (TGR) GT Cup PH, during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic lockdowns, with the mission of inspiring future Filipino racers. Fast forward to 2025, TMP is at it again, igniting the sim racing fire with a challenge to those who have what it takes to qualify.
Now called the TGR Philippines eSports GT Championship, TMP is opening the competition’s qualifying rounds, which will last until September 14, 2025. The tournament features sprint races on the Gran Turismo 7 video game using PlayStation consoles.
TMP states that the tournament will serve as an opportunity for top qualifiers to participate in the Asia Finals, to be held in Thailand later this year. If they succeed, they’ll move up to the regional stage to represent the Philippines.
Those who have what it takes to conquer are in for some high-stakes prizes. These include cash prizes, GR merchandise, and an invitation to join the TGR Academy.
For some people, coming out as an eSports racing champion is more than enough of an experience. However, for most participants, being invited to the TGR Academy via conquering the eSports challenge is the top goal. The TGR Academy gives them a chance to join TMP’s well-established one-make race, the Toyota GR Cup. The sim racing to real-world domination holds true for Russel Reyes and Luis Moreno, who are now champions of Toyota GR Cup in 2024 and 2025, respectively.
According to TMP, specific requirements must be met to participate in its eSports racing challenge. It said that eligibility is open to Filipino citizens or permanent residents living in the Philippines. Additionally, participants aged 17 and under must have valid consent from a parent or guardian.
Participants may complete their qualifying heats online or offline. Online participants must have a PlayStation 4 or 5, an active PSN account, a PS Plus subscription, and a copy of Gran Turismo 7. On the other hand, those who prefer an offline experience may visit select Toyota GR Performance dealerships, where they’ll need to present a valid government-issued ID.
The registration for the 2025 TGR Philippines eSports GT Championship qualifiers is available through an online form. The qualifiers will determine the top 40 players who will advance to the quarterfinals on October 11, 2025, at Ayala Malls Manila Bay in Pasay City. Then, on October 12, the semifinals and national finals will be held at the same venue.
