TTGE Upgrades Its Flagship Esports Tournament: GT Cup

  • TSAM Toyota South Africa Motors (TSAM), through The Toyota Gaming Engine (TTGE), is pleased to announce the launch of the 2026 GT Cup, one of its flagship esports tournaments.

Johannesburg – TSAM Toyota South Africa Motors (TSAM), through The Toyota Gaming Engine (TTGE), is pleased to announce the launch of the 2026 GT Cup, one of its flagship esports tournaments. The GT Cup remains a key pillar of TTGE’s commitment to expanding accessible, structured, and high-quality competitive gaming opportunities in South Africa. The tournament features officially licensed Toyota vehicles within the Gran Turismo 7 environment, reinforcing the brand’s strong connection to motorsport innovation and digital racing.

New Campaign and Expanded Player Opportunities

To accompany this year’s tournament, TTGE will introduce a new national campaign titled TTGE Vibe My Ride. The campaign is inspired both conceptually and aesthetically by a popular 2000s reality show where everyday people receive major upgrades to their cars. The association with the nostalgic show allows TTGE to appeal to a broader audience beyond pro gamers but also showcases how the tournament can bring real upgrades to the gaming experiences of participants. The campaign is influenced by a star-studded cast playing versions of themselves: Host Khanyisa Unfiltered Xhosa, cosplayer Tara, comedian Dillan Oliphant and entertainer Carpo More.

Refined Tournament Structure for 2026

In line with TTGE’s goal of fostering greater competitiveness and broader inclusion, the 2026 GT Cup will introduce an updated two-round structure. This enhancement allows more participants to compete across additional stages before qualifying for the final rounds.

  • Round 1: 2 February – 20 February 2026
  • Round 2: 16 February – 6 March 2026
  • Grand Finale: 11 March 2026

Expanded Reward Framework

This year’s GT Cup incorporates three distinct prize pathways designed to recognise a wider range of contributions and achievements across the TTGE community:

Social Media Engagement

Gaming hardware valued at over R120 000 awarded to selected participants who engage with TTGE’s digital platforms throughout the campaign.

Lap Time Submissions

A share of R15 000 in gaming-related upgrades available to participants who submit their lap times, regardless of performance outcomes.

Tournament Performance

Final podium prizes:

  • 1st place: R10 000 cash
  • 2nd place: R7 500 cash
  • 3rd place: R2 500 cash

Toyota’s Continued Investment in Digital Participation

The GT Cup forms part of Toyota South Africa Motors’ broader strategy to support the growth of esports and digital competition locally. By providing structured opportunities, recognisable branding, and accessible pathways for participation, TTGE works to ensure that gaming remains a platform for development, community building and inclusive recreational engagement.

“The GT Cup continues to play an important role in fostering local talent and expanding access to competitive gaming,” says Tasneem Lorgat, General Manager Marketing and Communications at Toyota South Africa Motors. “We remain committed to creating opportunities that support players at every level and to strengthening the connection between gaming, motorsport and community development.”

With a refined tournament structure, expanded engagement opportunities and a comprehensive reward system, the 2026 GT Cup is positioned to deliver one of TTGE’s strongest and most inclusive competitive seasons to date.

Registration is now open at https://ttge.co.za/GT-Vibe-My-Ride

For more information on Toyota’s brand partnerships, please visit Toyota Community Sponsorships | Toyota South Africa.