Manabu Orido Announces Retirement from SUPER GT After 30 Years of Racing
In a significant announcement within the motorsports community, two-time SUPER GT GT300 Champion Manabu Orido has declared his retirement from the series at the end of the current season. The 57-year-old veteran will conclude his career at the Motegi GT 250km Grand Final on November 7-8.
Orido, a celebrated figure in Japanese motorsport for his expertise in both circuit racing and drifting, began his professional racing journey in 1996 with the All Japan Grand Touring Car Championship (JGTC) at Fuji Speedway. He quickly made his mark, securing his first championship in GT300 in 1996 driving for Racing Project Bandoh with co-driver Hideo Fukuyama.
Throughout his career, Orido transitioned between the GT300 and GT500 classes, competing with notable teams such as Toyota Team SARD and Tsuchiya Engineering. His accomplishments include two victories and seven podium finishes in GT500, and a stellar return to GT300 in 2009 where he clinched the championship in a mid-engine Lexus IS350.
Orido’s career statistics are impressive: 229 races in JGTC/SUPER GT—ranking him third all-time in participation—two championships, six victories, 27 podiums, and 593 points in GT300 competition.
“I have decided to retire from driving in SUPER GT at the end of this season. To everyone who has supported me, thank you from the bottom of my heart,” Orido stated in a heartfelt social media message. “I will give it everything until the very last lap, with pride as a racing driver.”
In addition to his accomplishments in SUPER GT, Orido is recognized for his contributions to the D1 Grand Prix series and various other motorsports. His influence extends beyond racing into the broader car culture through his work in automotive media.
Orido’s retirement marks the end of an era in Japanese motorsport, with fans and peers looking forward to celebrating his final race this November.
