Russel Reyes, a 23-year-old professional sim racer from Bulakan, Bulacan, took the 3rd Place Overall Champion title at the Ferrari HP Esports Grand Finals 2024, scoring 52 points against high-level professional racers.
Russel proudly represented the Philippines in the competition, held for the first time at the new Esports Arena at Ferrari World on Yas Island, Abu Dhabi.
In the first round of the e-race, Reyes quickly made his mark by securing 5th place in the top 10. In the second round, he stayed in the top 10, rising to 3rd place and holding onto that position all the way to the finale. Meanwhile, It was a back-to-back victory for Luke Whitehead from the United Kingdom, who claimed the championship title at this year's Ferrari Esports. Aidan Walsingham, also from the United Kingdom took the 2nd place, while Filipino pride Russel Reyes proudly claimed 3rd Overall.
Despite Reyes having represented the Philippines in numerous racing competitions, he remains on cloud nine as he reflects on his victory in a prestigious virtual racing competition. “It feels unreal, representing myself and my country on a world stage as high as that is mind-boggling. I never expected to even get to top 5 since the field there, the drivers are high-level European pros and South American pros. To be able to keep up with them is really unexpected.” he shared.
The event brought together 15 finalists from the EMEA, APAC, and Americas regional finals, as well as a wildcard entry from the Thrustmaster Community Cup.
Spanning seven months, the Ferrari HP Esports Series featured aspiring virtual racers of all skill levels from around the globe. The journey culminated in an epic LAN event on December 5, running from 12:00 to 18:00. Fans worldwide tuned in to watch the Ferrari HP Esports Series Grand Final across all social media platforms, showcasing the best in esports racing talent.
From Sim Racing To Real Racing
When we think of racing, we usually imagine cars speeding down a track, with drivers battling it out in the heat of competition. But Reyes’ journey started differently, in a way that challenges the usual idea of what it means to be a racer.
He started by learning how to drift on a simulator, using a computer program with a steering wheel and pedal setup because he couldn’t afford to practice on a real track. How amazing is that? Those small, humble steps took him so far, leading him to compete in simulation racing championships hosted online by the sim racing community, Sim Racing PH.
At that point, Reyes started connecting with the real racing community, which opened doors to the real-life racing scene and he did just as well there! In just a few years, starting his racing career at the age of 23, this fine young man has already earned up an impressive list of achievements.
Some of his highlights (because let’s face it, this guy doesn’t skip a chance to collect awards) include competing in Malaysia for three consecutive years at the MAM Festival of Speed iRacing. This year, he made it extra special by becoming the overall champion, bringing home the gold for the Philippines. He also placed 4th overall in the Toyota GR GT Cup Asia 2024, claimed the title of Asia Silver Class Champion in the SRO GT World International 2023, and—proving his skills in real-world racing—won the Toyota Gazoo Racing Philippine Cup Novice Class Overall.
His achievement highlights his potential in the racing world. His confidence and determination have played a crucial role to where he is today. “Racing is an expensive sport, but if you have skill and a strong mindset, I think anyone has a chance,” he said. Believing that Filipino sports do not only revolve around basketball, Reyes is an inspiration to step off the court and explore the full extent of what Filipinos can offer as the world progresses—and so do we.
Russel Reyes isn’t just an inspiration; he is the proof of what’s possible. This is why it’s clear that he is now well-established—as a racing coach, a freelance race engineer, and an amateur race car driver.
