Daiki Arai clinches JN-1 title at Rally Highland Masters

Daiki Arai has secured the JN-1 class driver's championship title in the All Japan Rally Championship following the opening stages of the 8th round, the M.C.S.C. Rally Highland Masters 2026 in Gifu Prefecture.

During the first day of competition on October 17, Arai, driving a Toyota GR Yaris Rally2, maintained a dominant performance by setting the fastest times in SS1, SS2, and SS3. He established a 21.2-second lead over second-place driver Takuma Kamata. Despite his success, Arai noted challenges with tire compound selection during the morning sessions.

The event also features the MORIZO Challenge Cup (MCC), a series aimed at developing young drivers. Competing in the JN-3 class, drivers are vying for unique MCC points and the opportunity to qualify for the Toyota GAZOO Racing WRC Challenge Program. The rally is held across 12 stages in the Hida Takayama region, utilizing a service park at Kuriyama Exchange Plaza.