In a breakthrough for Philippine motorsports, 20-year-old Iñigo Anton has been crowned the 2025 Formula 4 Southeast Asia (F4 SEA) Rookie Champion, making history as the first Filipino to capture the title. Despite missing the final round at Sepang International Circuit due to illness, his consistent podium finishes throughout the season secured the rookie crown and an overall fourth-place finish in the championship standings.
RELATED: [PH’s Most Advanced Racing Circuit To Rise In Pampanga]
A Season of Consistency and Character
Representing BlackArts Racing, Anton’s campaign across five rounds of the F4 SEA season was marked by both speed and resilience. From the technical demands of Malaysia’s Sepang track to the fast straights of Zhuhai, he demonstrated skill in tire management, overtaking, and race craft under pressure. Battling through setbacks and the challenges of international competition, Anton showed maturity well beyond his rookie status.
“This is something that Iñigo has always dreamed of,” his father, Carlos Anton, shared. “Because of his dedication, passion, and the trust and relationships he’s built with his sponsors, he was able to reach his dream and become the first Filipino to achieve this. Winning the 2025 F4 SEA Rookie Championship is truly something worth celebrating.”
His mother, Karen, echoed the pride and gratitude: “Iñigo has always been passionate about his dreams. Even when we thought it was impossible because of the costs, he believed he could do it—and he did. We are very proud of him.”
Support That Fueled the Dream
Anton’s achievement was backed by a wide network of supporters and sponsors. From Motul Philippines and Infiniteserv International Corporation providing world-class lubricants, to the mentorship of BlackArts Racing and technical support from Axle Sports and Yokohama Philippines, his campaign was a community effort. Groups like Obengers Racing, Mark Young Racing, and MP Turbo Philippines also played a key role in his development.
“This victory is not just mine, it’s for every Filipino who dreams big,” Anton said. “To raise our flag on the podium and hear our anthem play is a moment I’ll carry forever. I’m proud to represent the Philippines and show the world what we’re capable of.”
A Milestone for Philippine Motorsports
Anton’s win is more than an individual triumph, it’s a milestone for Philippine motorsports. His rise from local karting tracks to an international F4 championship podium proves that Filipino racers can compete and excel on the global stage.
Currently a University of Baguio student, Anton has also been a dominant force in local racing, including back-to-back championships in the Toyota Gazoo Racing Philippine Cup. His journey reflects not just talent, but also perseverance, humility, and the strength of a supportive racing community.
Anton’s historic rookie title sets a new benchmark for future Filipino drivers aspiring to follow his path, showing that with passion, perseverance, and the right support, the dream of competing, and winning, internationally is within reach.
