May 18, 2024

■  Harley F. Palangchao 

Filipino racing phenom Iñigo Anton of Baguio City is set to make his Formula car debut in the highly-anticipated Formula 4 Southeast Asia set at the prestigious Sepang International Circuit in Malaysia on Dec. 1 to 3.

The 19-year-old Anton will join The Black Arts Racing Team under sporting director and former F1 racer Alex Yoong.

FORMULA 4 DEBUT — Filipino racing phenom Iñigo Anton, 19, of Baguio City, has joined the Black Arts Racing Team, as he makes his Formula 4 racing debut at the Sepang International Circuit in Malaysia on Dec. 1 to 3. Anton is backed by Motul Philippines. With Anton are his parents, Carlos and Karen, and younger brother Alonzo. — Contributed photos

Anton is currently leading the championship in Formula V1 and Radical Cars Philippines.

In 2022, he made history by winning three championships in one year when he won as the TGR Vios Cup Super-Sporting champion then later the Radical Philippines champion.

He finished 2022 in high notes when he was awarded the Automobile Association of the Philippines Driver of the Year for Circuit Racing for topping the Philippine GT championship. 

He was also the lone representative of the Philippines in the inaugural Olympic Esports Competition in motorsports held in Singapore where he managed to be a finalist alongside the top 10 Gran Turismo racers of the world.

Anton’s journey as a young car racing phenom has been nothing short of remarkable.

Starting his car racing career at the age eight, he showcased immense potential and quickly drew attention with his natural talent behind the wheel.

“As I begin my journey in Formula 4 racing, I am filled with immense pride and honor to represent the Philippines. My goal is not only to compete at the highest level but to raise our flag high and make our fellow Filipinos proud. With every lap, every turn, and every race, I carry the spirit, resilience, and determination of our nation. I am committed to giving my best performance,” Anton said in a statement.

He boasts an impressive collection of 19 national championships won across various motorsport disciplines, solidifying his position as one of the top and most versatile Filipino car racers.

One of Anton’s supporters, Motul Philippines, a renowned provider of high-performance lubricants and automotive products, recognizes the Baguio boy’s incredible talents and unwavering commitment to the sport, which aligns perfectly with the brand’s core values.

“Motul stands firmly behind the next generation of racing superstars, providing them the necessary support and resources to thrive,” the company said in a statement.