Tables turned, summit reached: Abdool seals the title

The 2025 GR Cup Media Challenge crowned its champion in the Western Cape, as Nabil Abdool and his SuperSport-backed GR Yaris “Apollo” sealed the title at Killarney International Raceway.

Abdool arrived in Cape Town with the title within reach. A pair of runner-up finishes was enough to confirm him as the provisional 2025 GR Cup Media Challenge Champion! A landmark achievement for SuperSport in its debut year.

The build-up to Killarney brimmed with anticipation after an eight-week break. Abdool immediately set the pace in all three practice sessions, but after an intense Qualifying session he found himself second on the grid alongside local favourite Kyle Kock (CAR Magazine).

RACE 1: A COSTLY START

The opening race delivered instant drama with Abdool’s GR Yaris hitting the limiter during the rolling start, allowing three Dealer cars to stream past relegating him from second to 5th. Abdool locked in a fierce duel against NMI’s Werner Venter. Despite the pressure, Venter remained ahead, with Abdool coming home second in the Media class and Kyle Kock taking a breakthrough win for the season to the delight of his home crowd.

RACE 2: RELENTLESS PURSUIT

Starting fourth, Abdool launched well but again Venter pounced and fought door-to-door through the opening corners to take fourth. Abdool locked in and reclaimed the position on the opening lap, a relentless charge saw Abdool pull a bold move on Mario de Sousa (Motus Toyota) into the first corner.

On the same lap Abdool closed Devon Scott’s Academy GR Yaris and pounced when the Academy driver made a rare mishift down the back straight. Climbing to second Abdool secured the fastest lap of the race while he charged towards Car Magazine’s Kyle Kock, but the Cape Town driver, spurred by his fans, delivered a flawless drive to complete a double victory. Abdool crossed the line second in class once again.

RESILIENCE AND REWARD

Killarney marked the first weekend of 2025 where the SuperSport GR Yaris didn’t claim a win, ending a streak of nine straight victories and five pole positions. Yet resilience proved just as important as outright speed. Ten valuable points lifted Abdool’s tally to 73, extending his lead to 21 points with just 14 remaining at the finale. That margin confirms him as the 2025 GR Cup Media Challenge Champion!

A CHAMPION’S REFLECTION

Reflecting on the moment, Abdool said:

“Sealing the deal at the venue where it all started, being crowned 2025 GR Cup Champion is an incredible achievement! The coming together of titan brands, in my hands and emblazoned on my chest - it’s been an honour and a privilege to represent SuperSport on the national stage courtesy of Toyota Gazoo Racing.

This is what dreams are made of, this one’s for the World of Champions, the Home of Sport. Thanks to you, my Cup is full.”

LOOKING AHEAD

The GR Cup finale will be held at Zwartkops Raceway on 25 October, where Abdool will return with the pressure off and the championship already secured.

Meanwhile, the battle for runner-up remains wide open, with Kyle Kock only four points ahead of TimesLive Phuti Mpyane, setting the stage for a thrilling showdown for second place in the championship standings.