Continuing his karting development program in 2025, Axel Nocom recently flew to Japan for back-to-back race weekends. He began his stint with an invitation entry in the Motegi Kart Race, followed by Round 1 of the Global Promotion of Race (GPR) at Suzuka Circuit—where he successfully landed a spot on the podium.
Although he had tested at Suzuka before, this marked his first time racing on the famed circuit, on Dunlop SL22 tires, and his debut behind the wheel of an IAME X30 kart. Adding to the challenge was the unpredictable weather, with all of Friday’s practice sessions held in the wet.
Axel quickly adapted to both the new machinery and variable conditions, ending Friday 2nd fastest overall among all Junior entries. Saturday brought more rain, drenching all but the final session, but the Filipino driver held his ground—once again going 2nd fastest, even when the track dried up.
Unfortunately, his luck ran out during Sunday morning’s Qualifying session. In addition to setting a clean lap, drivers needed a well-timed tow to post a competitive time—but the pack pulled away before he could latch on, leaving him out on his own and down in a disappointing P9.
Focused on securing good results, Axel got his head down for Final 1. He immediately went on the attack, climbing to P5 by the race’s halfway mark. However, the front four had already pulled clear by this point, leaving Axel unable to close the gap. He would settle for 5th at the flag—a respectable recovery given his starting position.
Final 2’s grid was set based on each driver’s fastest lap from Race 1, placing Axel in P5 once again. He wasted no time, overtaking two karts in the opening laps to move into P3. The lone Filipino on the grid then set his sights on 2nd, but a small mistake with just two laps remaining allowed the kart behind to close in and make a move.
Not willing to let the podium slip away, Axel launched a decisive counterattack with just a few corners before the chequered flag. He reclaimed 3rd place and crossed the line to secure a hard-earned podium finish on his Suzuka debut.
Axel Nocom is supported by the Mercedes Young Driver Development Philippines, Deseño MNL, Recaro Philippines, DENSO Spark Plugs, Ceramic Pro Philippines, Ravenol Philippines, AutoPlus Sports, DRIFT XAUST, DRIFT MOTOR Speedway, Ekartraceway, Kart Republic, New Era Cap Philippines, Skullcandy Philippines, Burlington Socks, Simagic, Cammus Philippines, Apex Racing Philippines, Monza Barcade, Pregame Motorsport Merchandise, and DG Budget Hotel.
Those interested in following in Axel’s footsteps to race competitively overseas can inquire at the Axel Motorsports page on Facebook.
