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Motor racing driver Nathi Msimanga

Jun 01, 2023 Nathi Msimanga, Toyota Gazoo Racing driver


Motor racing driver Nathi Msimanga 

 

With a love for all things automotive inspired by movies he watched when he was a child, and having passed the Kyalami Race Track on his way to school each day, it was only time before motor racing took centre stage in Nathi Msimanga’s life – and he is now literally living out his childhood dreams.

 

The Midrand born-and-raised Toyota Gazoo Racing driver has further sealed his automotive passion, he is presently undertaking a degree in Mechanical Engineering at Wits University. “My passion for cars goes as far back as I can remember. I will be 20 in September, as a child, I was so obsessed with cars that I soon got into indoor karting where I was very quick on the track. Seeing my passion and early talent, my dad contacted a professional go-kart team, Squadra Corsa, and within a few weeks I was an official racer,” said Msimanga.

 

The passion for driving turned into practice two to three times a week. “I trained as frequently as I could because I loved the adrenaline rush. At the time my competitors had a lot more experience than I did, so I worked very hard to catch up to their years of practice and skill,” said Msimanga. The groundwork and passion soon paid off for Msimanga, with Toyota Gazoo Racing spotting his talent. “Toyota reached out to me to potentially drive the third GTC car for Toyota Gazoo Racing in the 2023 season. Needless to say, I grabbed the opportunity with both hands. 

 

Toyota is a fantastic brand, and I am really excited to drive for them. It turned out to be the best decision of my career so far. Right now, I am fourth in the championship. I know that I have the speed, and with the support from my family and Toyota family, I am sure I can secure a higher placement,” he said.

 

With a parallel career in mechanical engineering coming around the corner quickly too, Msimanga is a wealth of knowledge on moving parts. When it comes to tyres, he advises: “When acquiring a new tyre, it’s important to check the tyre compound. Too soft, it’s fast but doesn’t last long, and if too hard they are slow. A good balance is key to the right tyre for your vehicle. And as any technician will tell you, always inspect your tyres for bulges, wear and tear, tread, or overheating,” he said.

 

“What I love about motor racing is that it pushes man and machinery to their absolute limit in pursuit for the ultimate lap time or victory. It combines cars, speed, and competition into one. When I am racing, all my worries disappear, and it just allows me to focus on just driving. It is a stress relief for me in some ways too,” he said.

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