Nissan Teams On A High as Hololive GT3 Japan Series Qualifiers Enters Okayama 400

Mimasaka, Okayama, 14 December - The 2024-25 Hololive GT3 Japan Series Qualifiers move to Okayama this weekend, with the intense competition from SUGO setting the stage for another thrilling round. Known for its mix of technical corners and flowing straights, Okayama International Circuit promises a fresh set of challenges for the Split A and Split B grids. With championship positions on the line, drivers are determined to make their mark in the second round of qualifiers.

In Split A, after a dominant performance at SUGO, La+ Darknesss’ driver Rustim Kurashio enters Okayama as the clear favorite. His commanding win and ability to fend off fierce competition at Sportsland SUGO highlighted the Nissan driver’s potential to secure back-to-back victories. However, Zeke Wimberley, representing Shirakami Fubuki, will be looking to challenge Kurashio again after his impressive debut saw him finish second.

Johan Sinful (Natsuiro Matsuri, Lexus) and Sean Poly (Inugami Korone, Honda) are also strong contenders. Both displayed excellent pace at SUGO and will aim to capitalize on the technical demands of Okayama to narrow the gap to Kurashio in the standings.

In Split B, all eyes will be on Ri Liu, who begins his final campaign for Sakamata Chloe as her Hololive career nears its end. The Okayama 400 will mark Liu’s third-to-last appearance in the Chloe car, with his sights firmly set on topping Split B and delivering a fitting farewell to his VTuber oshi. Liu’s pace at SUGO showed flashes of brilliance, but bad luck in key moments prevented him from finishing higher than fifth.

Liu’s bid for Split B dominance won’t come easy. Tyler Williams (Amane Kanata, Nissan) enters the round as the defending Okayama 400 winner, fresh off a crushing victory at SUGO. Williams’ consistency and strategic acumen make him a formidable opponent, especially on a track where precision can often decide the race.

Mohd Shaqif Redza (Momosuzu Nene, Nissan) and Vladislav Domaschnev (Aki Rosenthal, Lexus) are also expected to be in the mix after podium finishes in the opening round. Both drivers have shown they can manage the pressures of a competitive grid and will look to build on their strong starts to the season.

Ri Liu’s impending departure adds an emotional layer to Split B’s storylines. With Sakamata Chloe’s streaming activities ending on January 26, 2025, the Chloe car will race its final event in March at the Color Rise Harmony 500. Meanwhile, Liu has reportedly signed a preliminary deal to continue racing for another Hololive member in future ARO events. Details remain under wraps, but fans are already speculating about Liu’s next chapter.

Okayama’s layout, characterized by its blend of tight hairpins, quick corners, and short straights, is expected to test drivers’ race craft and awareness. The demanding Turn 5 and the technical final sector will be hotspots for overtaking, while the back straight offers opportunities for slipstream battles into the braking zone at Turn 4.

As tire degradation and strategy play pivotal roles, the Okayama 400 will be as much about brains as brawn. Teams must find the perfect balance between aggression and tire management to come out on top.

With Nissan securing both Split A and Split B wins at SUGO, Okayama will provide a glimpse into whether they can maintain their newfound dominance or if Honda and Lexus can stage a comeback. For drivers like Liu and Kurashio, this weekend offers the chance to solidify their championship campaigns, while rivals like Poly, Wimberley, and Redza aim to turn the tide in their favor.

As the engines fire up for the second round of qualifiers, the Okayama 400 promises another weekend of high-speed action, fierce rivalries, and emotional farewells that define the Hololive GT3 Japan Series.