Kiwi rally star Zeal Jones has completed a big week in his career with his first win in the Morizo Challenge Cup series in Japan – and he saved his best for last.
Jones and co-driver Bayden Thomson took control of the eight-stage, two-day Kumakogen Rally early on during the first day’s stages and ran trouble-free on the second day. The final four stages included an impressive victory on the sixth stage.
It gave Jones and Thomson their first class victory and saw them complete the season in second overall in the points standings for the Morizo Challenge Cup.
The result capped a fine week for the young driver, who was also confirmed for the second year running in Toyota GAZOO Racing’s final ‘cut’ of just five drivers for the final of the 2025 TOYOTA GAZOO Racing WRC Challenge Program.
“It’s really cool to be the winners of the MCC class at the final round. I feel it’s been a long time coming this year. All of the little things finally worked out, and we may have had a bit of luck on our side in this round, too.
“It’s been so much hard work by the team and everyone at home to make this happen. For us, this is our last round, and that’s a little bit sad after my first major international competition, but it’s a great way to end a big year.
“This Japanese campaign was all about learning and development, and we’ve certainly learned so much, but to finish it off with a win, which was one of our goals at the start of the season, is a great way for me and Bayden to finish.”
Jones was full of praise for all of his sponsors and supporters but saved a special word for Thomosn, who has also had a very challenging season in the co-driver’s seat.
“Bayden has always been an absolute champion, thanks mate for all the sacrifice and hard work it has taken this year.”
Jones now switches his attention to his second attempt at securing a long-term future in the top echelon of the sport.
“Now I’ve got to switch my focus to what lies ahead in the WRC Challenge Program. I feel so much better prepared than last year, and I’m going to be making sure I cover every detail and be as prepared as I can for what’s to come. To be part of Toyota Gazoo Racing would be a dream.”
The TOYOTA GAZOO Racing WRC Challenge Program was established in 2015 with the aim of identifying and developing rally drivers from Japan who can compete on the world stage. Jones qualifies as his mother is Japanese.
Header Image: Supplied
