The Honda NSX GT3 is on the verge of bidding farewell in this weekend's SUPER GT season finale at Suzuka. Team UpGarage, the last team still running the NSX GT3 Evo22, is likely to switch manufacturers in 2025. UpGarage joined the SUPER GT grid in 2019 and upgraded to the latest spec two years ago. However, amid Honda's plans to end support for the car and difficulties adapting to carbon-neutral fuel and Balance of Performance issues, the team has had a tough season. Drivers Takashi Kobayashi and Shun Koide are currently in 14th place in the GT300 points with only one podium finish this season. There are doubts over Honda's presence in the lower division of SUPER GT. Honda's NSX GT3's Future Hangs in the Balance
Team UpGarage's Decision and Honda's Support
The Honda NSX GT3 looks set for its last race in SUPER GT as Team UpGarage is certain to switch manufacturers. UpGarage has been the sole team running the NSX GT3 Evo22 since Yogibo Racing withdrew. Honda's decision to end support at the end of the season adds to the uncertainty. A spokesperson for HRC Japan said they couldn't answer about the final race as it's the team's decision. Takashi Kobayashi is likely to stay with the new UpGarage outfit, while Shun Koide may move to the Honda GT500 roster. This raises questions about Honda's young driver program.There is a good relationship between Honda and UpGarage, but details are yet to be revealed. The Servus Japan-run operation has faced challenges adapting to the new fuel and Balance of Performance issues.PONOS Racing's Tire Switch and Michelin's Stance
Another significant change for 2025 is PONOS Racing switching from Michelin to Dunlop tires. PONOS started the year with Gainer's support and now operates from its own factory near Fuji Speedway. They joined the grid with a new Ferrari 296 GT3 shared by Kei Cozzolino and Lilou Wadoux. But the team has had a tough season except for the rain-affected Sugo round. Sportscar365 has learned that a deal to switch to Dunlop tires has been finalized.Michelin insists its commitment to SUPER GT won't be affected by the potential loss of one of its three customer teams. Michelin Japan's motorsports director Hiroaki Odashima said supplying two cars is acceptable. He also mentioned that other GT300 teams are interested in joining and they are confident in improving tire performance in 2025.Jamie Klein is Sportscar365's Asian editor, covering various series including the FIA World Endurance Championship and SUPER GT. He previously worked for Motorsport Network on the Motorsport.com and Autosport titles.
