ROOKIE Racing Launches GT300 Program with Veteran Driver Hiroaki Ishiura and Rookie Tokiya Suzuki
Tokyo, Japan – In a significant development at the conclusion of the Tokyo Auto Salon 2026, ROOKIE Racing has unveiled its entry into the GT300 class of the Autobacs SUPER GT Series, utilizing the Mercedes-AMG GT3 EVO. This announcement marks a strategic expansion for the team as it aims to leverage the competitive pedigree of one of the sport’s most celebrated drivers.
Hiroaki Ishiura, the 2007 GT300 Champion, returns to this category after an illustrious 18-year stint in the GT500, where he achieved seven wins and 24 podiums, concluding his tenure with a top-three finish in the standings during his final season in 2025. “I’m excited to return to GT300,” said Ishiura. He will share driving duties with Tokiya Suzuki, a promising 19-year-old talent fresh off victory in the 2025 FIA F4 Japanese Championship.
Suzuki has also shown potential with a strong second-place finish in the Formula Regional Japanese Championship and participation in the Super Taikyu Series, driving a Toyota GR Yaris. The duo will compete in the same Mercedes-AMG GT3 EVO that ROOKIE Racing employed to claim the ST-X (GT3) class championship in both the 2023 and 2024 Super Taikyu seasons, including a notable victory in the Fuji Super TEC 24 Hours.
Eneos has extended its title sponsorship to the GT300 program, though details regarding a tyre supplier and car numbers remain unconfirmed. At a presentation hosted by Akio ‘Morizo’ Toyoda, Chairman of Toyota Motor Corporation, Ishiura humorously acknowledged the team’s choice of vehicle, despite discussions of impending Toyota models. Toyoda indicated this was a strategic decision, hinting at possible future integration of Toyota’s upcoming GR GT3.
This program aims to replicate the path laid by the Lexus RC F GT3, which raced in GT300 as a prototype before its full homologation in 2017. Ishiura was also involved in the GR GT3’s initial testing phase, signifying his deep connection to the evolving landscape of Toyota’s racing capabilities.
The ROOKIE Racing entry into GT300 promises a uniquely competitive season ahead, fusing experience with emerging talent, and setting the stage for exciting developments in the SUPER GT Series.
