Zeal Jones to get major Toyota WRC opportunity
Leading Brian Green Property Group New Zealand Rally Championship up-and-coming star Zeal Jones has secured an opportunity of a lifetime that could lead to a WRC spot.
Fresh off his maiden NZRC podium last weekend, Jones has been given a place in the WRC Challenge Program initiated by the Toyota Gazoo Racing World Rally Team and will head to Japan in October for a trial at Fuji International Speedway.
Jones, who has Japanese heritage and is recognised as being Japanese, will be one of 100 participants taking part, that will get whittled down to a small number that will be given the chance to be part of the team’s generation 4 drivers program.
Current WRC star Takamoto Katsura was a first generation driver, their second generation drivers are currently in GR Yaris Rally 2 cars while third generation drivers are competing in Rally 4 cars.
The lucky few that get all the way through the program will take part in a specially designed program that will base them in Finland.
“I’m excited about this opportunity as it’s the dream gateway to the WRC,” the 19-year-old said. “However, I know it is more than just my skill on show – I want to show my overall ability as a driver on and off stage.
“I have been fortunate enough to have an amazing support crew around me as well as my sponsors, who have helped me to this stage in my career.
“I look forward to getting on the plane and giving it my all. I will be using everything I have learned throughout my career, especially the key takeways from the Elite Motorsport Academy and the Winmax Junior Driver program as they guide my path to a packaged driver.”
Jones heads to Japan on October 22.
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