Sim racer Dhanesh gears up for Tokyo world finals

Malaysian simulation racer Dhanesh Wigneswaran will compete in the Gran Turismo World Series (GTWS) 2026 World Finals in Tokyo this December. Representing Southeast Asia, Dhanesh, 26, aims to bring attention to the sport within the region. A simulation racing, or sim racing, enthusiast, Dhanesh runs DannyR Esports Studio in Subang Jaya to nurture local talent.

The sport involves using realistic racing games and specialized equipment to recreate the experience of driving on a racetrack. Dhanesh, already established in the local Gran Turismo scene, competed in championship titles last year and now represents Volkswagen in the Manufacturers Cup. The series includes online rounds leading to live competitions in Milan, Tokyo, and Singapore, culminating in the world finals.

Dhanesh, who has previous experience at the World Series, hopes to score points for Volkswagen and help secure a top-six finish. Despite challenges such as the weather during a live round in Tokyo, Dhanesh remains focused on mental preparation, emphasizing the importance of staying composed and remembering past successes. While Japanese drivers dominate the Asia-Oceania field, Dhanesh has experienced a friendly atmosphere among his fellow racers, fostering relationships beyond the virtual racetrack.

With interest in the sport growing, Dhanesh hopes to see more attention and success for sim racing in Malaysia.