New Zealand rally driver Zeal Jones has once again secured a spot among the final five competitors in the Toyota Gazoo Racing WRC Challenge, aiming to progress into Toyota’s elite world rally program and ultimately compete in the FIA World Rally Championship. This milestone, reached in December, follows a rigorous selection process that began with 100 hopefuls vying for limited places.
Competitive Selection Process at Koda Circuit Narrows Field
The initial rounds took place at Koda Circuit in Aichi, Nagoya, where participants drove Toyota’s GR86 model. Drivers were tested through several phases, including one practice lap and two timed attack laps, with the top three performers from each session moving on to the semi-finals. This format challenged the drivers on both speed and skill under pressure.
In the semi-final round, evaluation criteria shifted focus from pure lap times to a broader assessment of driving abilities, such as car control, adaptability, and stress management, over a modified course. Jones and other remaining drivers completed a practice and two timed laps, under the close observation of instructors Mikko Hirvonen and Jouni Ampuja.
Expert Instructors Select Finalists for Finnish Showdown
Hirvonen and Ampuja handpicked the five finalists who will advance to the final phase of the Toyota Gazoo Racing WRC Challenge Program Generation 5, scheduled to take place in Finland. Jones, who also made the final five last year, expressed relief and determination at achieving this result again.
“Having gone through this last year, there was that added expectation to make it again, and we did. It was stressful, but I wanted to put my best foot forward, which it seems we did.”
—Zeal Jones, Driver
Progress and Preparation Reflect in Jones’ Performance
During his debut rally season in Japan, Jones competed in the Morizo Challenge Cup alongside many young talents, earning several stage wins and podium finishes though still chasing his first overall victory. Reflecting on his growth, he credited the season for enhancing his driving smoothness and composure, especially on tarmac.
“We’ve learned a lot from last year’s experience and also from our year in Japan this season, where driving on the tarmac helped improve our smoothness, calmness, and overall understanding of what the instructors are looking for.”
—Zeal Jones, Driver
Jones expressed eagerness for the upcoming Finnish final, describing it as a unique chance to drive across ice and snow in various cars while receiving coaching from current WRC drivers.
“I’m really excited to go back to Finland, the rallying capital of the world. It’s a lifetime opportunity to drive on ice and snow in different cars and to be coached by WRC drivers across a week, which is truly world-class.”
—Zeal Jones, Driver
He emphasized the prestige of joining Toyota Gazoo Racing, noting the team’s status as reigning world manufacturers’ champions.
“To be part of Toyota Gazoo Racing would be a dream. They are the reigning world manufacturers’ champions and are having a great season this year, practically dominating, so representing and earning a contract with a team like that would be an honour.”
—Zeal Jones, Driver
Looking ahead, Jones shared confidence that experience from last year will help him focus on delivering consistent and comprehensive performances.
“This year, nothing will be a surprise, and we can prepare better, knowing what to expect. My focus is on consistency, strong physical preparation, and proving that I’m an all-around driver capable of ultimately reaching the WRC team.”
—Zeal Jones, Driver
Background of the Toyota Gazoo Racing WRC Challenge Program
Established in 2015, the Toyota Gazoo Racing WRC Challenge Program aims to discover and nurture rally drivers from Japan with the potential to compete globally. Jones, who qualifies due to his Japanese heritage through his mother, continues to pursue this pathway with dedication and growing experience.
