In a thrilling feat, Gran Turismo World Series champion Igor Fraga has claimed his first victory in the competitive realm of Japanese single-seater racing, Super Formula. This remarkable achievement further solidifies the connection between virtual and real-world racing.
Suzuka Circuit Triumph
Fraga, the 2018 Gran Turismo World Series Nations Cup winner, dominated round ten of the championship at Japan’s iconic Suzuka Circuit. Entering the world of Super Formula in 2025 after ascending from the Super Formula Lights series, Fraga’s debut has been nothing short of impressive. Starting from the front row, he skillfully overtook Tadasuke Makino at the first corner, maintaining the lead to secure victory by a two-second margin. This triumph marked Nakajima Racing’s first win in five years.
From Sim Racing to Real Success
Gran Turismo has been instrumental in Fraga’s racing career, as evidenced by its logo adorning his racing gear. Beyond virtual racing, he has been named the Super Formula Rookie of the Year. The support of prominent sim racing hardware brand Fanatec has also been crucial to his journey.
Real World Sim Racing Success
Igor Fraga joins the ranks of former sim racers who have transitioned successfully to real-world motorsport. Notable among them is James Baldwin, who emerged victorious in the World’s Fastest Gamer competition in 2019 and has excelled in several European motorsport series. Sim racing stands out as an esport that bridges virtual skills with the demands of the traditional racetrack, providing a pathway for aspirant drivers to achieve success in motorsport.