Throwing down the Gauntlet at the Race of Champions

Race of Champions has wowed numerous spectators, with its radically different setup - champions of each motorsports arena take the chance to find out who is the fastest around the specially built track, racing with up to seven types of different cars.

Takuto Iguchi is one of the latest contenders in the Race of Champions (ROC). The 24-year old Japanese racer had recently come in first in class during this year’s Nurburgring 24 Hour race. Under his belt is also a total of eight wins in the Japanese Formula Three and Champion of the All Japan Karting in 2005.


SGCM: Congratulations to your win at this year's Nurburgring 24 Hour. How is the ROC compared to other international races?

TI: Thank you very much. I have taken part in the Super GT300, and more recently in the Nurburgring race. This is my first race in Thailand, and the first time taking part in ROC. I enjoy the competition here, and it is a good chance and exposure to be able to race with some of the best in the world. The track here is also very new, and good, but is tough and challenging.

SGCM: There are a total of seven cars here at the ROC this year. Which is your favourite?

TI: I have not had the chance to try three of them: ROC car, Scirocco, and Toyota 86. The ROC is the most fun to drive. The GT86 also pose a certain amount of challenge with its stick manual gearbox, which is also very rewarding to drive. The Scirocco is automatic, and comes with paddle shifters, and is my least favourite among the trio.