Princes shaping motorsports future

The Star

02-06-2025

IN recent years, Malaysia's motorsports scene has gained unprecedented momentum thanks to the high-octane involvement of two royal siblings from Johor.
The growing achievements of Tunku Panglima Johor Tunku Abdul Rahman Al-Haj Ibni Sultan Ibrahim and Tunku Putera Johor Tunku Abu Bakar Al-Haj Ibni Sultan Ibrahim on the racetrack are not only rewriting motorsports history in Malaysia, but also igniting national pride.
Tunku Abdul Rahman's passion for motorsports turned professional in 2019 when he made his debut in the Blancpain GT World Challenge Asia Series.
Representing Johor Motorsport Racing, Tunku Abdul Rahman quickly established himself as a competitive force in the region.
In 2024, Tunku Abdul Rahman achieved one of his career highlights by securing his first victory in the Asian Le Mans Series at the Yas Marina Circuit in Abu Dhabi.
Teaming up with Luca Stolz and Jordan Love in a Mercedes AMG GT3, their victory was a culmination of strategy, endurance and pure racing prowess.
Following closely in his brother's tracks is Tunku Abu Bakar, who began competing in the GT World Challenge Asia – GT3 series in 2022 with Triple Eight JMR.
Though younger, Tunku Abu Bakar's talent was evident from the start, where he achieved his first career pole position and race win in Thailand.
Tunku Abu Bakar's 2023 season ended on a high note with a runner-up finish in the GT3 Drivers' Championship, further cementing his reputation as one of Malaysia's most promising young racers.
The royal siblings' shared passion led to the formation of Johor Motorsport Racing (JMR) early this year.
The goal is to elevate local talent while competing at the highest levels in global GT racing competitions through JMR. The initiative reflects not just their love for the sport, but also a vision to see Malaysia dominate the international racing circuit.
In a major move, JMR became South-East Asia's first team to field the Chevrolet Corvette Z06 GT3.R, an engineering marvel and a defining move by the Johor royals.
This partnership marked a turning point, aligning Malaysia with some of the top racing technologies in the world.
For the 2025 season, Tunku Abdul Rahman teamed up with Corvette factory driver Alexander Sims in car No.99, while Tunku Abu Bakar drove car No.66 alongside Jordan Love.
Together, they have secured several podium finishes, firmly establishing themselves as serious contenders.
Their efforts were recently recognised at the prestigious National Sports Award 2024, where both Tunku Abdul Rahman and Tunku Abu Bakar were conferred a special award for their outstanding contributions to motorsports.
The ceremony was attended by none other than their father, His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia – a proud moment for both the royal family and the nation.
This recognition highlights how their journey has evolved beyond racing to become a powerful symbol of inspiration and national pride. It also reflects the government's growing acknow­ledgment of motorsports as a serious and emerging discipline.
Beyond racing, both princes have become mentors and role models, introducing talent scouting programmes and technical training for aspiring drivers through JMR.
Their goal is to nurture future champions from Malaysia who can shine on the international stage.
Sultan Ibrahim and Her Majesty Raja Zarith Sofiah, Queen of Malaysia, have shown their unwavering support, notably by attending races such as the GT World Challenge opener at Sepang.
Their presence reflects how deeply motorsports is embedded within the Johor royal family.
Both princes are known for their hands-on involvement in the day-to-day operations of JMR.
From technical decisions to marketing strategies, their leadership is shaping a new kind of royal influence, one that is grounded in action rather than mere symbolism.
Social media has played a crucial role in connecting them with fans, as their Instagram and TikTok accounts offer followers a glimpse into their training, race-day rituals and camaraderie, making motorsports more accessible and appealing to the younger generation.
Their journey has not been without challenges, but they have approached each hurdle with resilience and professionalism.
Whether facing technical setbacks or fierce competition, Tunku Abdul Rahman and Tunku Abu Bakar remain unwavering in their drive and commitment – with an impact that extends far beyond the track.
Young Malaysians now view motorsports as a viable career path – one accessible not just to the elite, but to anyone with talent, determination and proper support.
The establishment of JMR is already paying dividends, as several young drivers have begun training under the team's development programme, laying the groundwork for a future Malaysian motorsports dynasty.
Tunku Abdul Rahman and Tunku Abu Bakar's involvement is a testament to how sports can unite people from all backgrounds. By leveraging their status for the greater good, the princes are not only enhancing the Johor royal family's legacy but also contributing to Malaysia's sporting excellence.
The princes are not merely participating in motorsports – they are also actively shaping its future in Malaysia.
As the 2025 season roars ahead, one thing is certain: the Johor princes are racing not just for titles, but for legacy, for youth and for Malaysia's place on the global motorsports stage.