Taj Izrin credits ex-F1 driver Alex Yoong after Asian Games triumph

AICHI: Former Malaysian Formula One driver Alex Yoong's advice to stay calm proved to be the secret behind Taj Izrin Aiman Taj Madira's historic e-Racing gold at the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games.

It was not simply his speed on the simulator or precision in choosing race strategies that made the difference as Taj Izrin secured Malaysia's first esports gold at the Asiad on Wednesday.

Taj Izrin said Yoong's advice to remain calm allowed him to handle intense pressure as his position fluctuated against competitors from Japan, Indonesia, and Saudi Arabia during the Aichi-Nagoya Asiad Gran Turismo 7 final.

Taj Izrin said mental preparation played a major role in dealing with the fierce competition on the Asian stage, particularly against experienced racers who had already made their mark at world championships.

"My coach Alex always told me not to overthink, to practise breathing techniques and relax. There were times when we dropped to P4 or P5, but I think staying calm was the reason we were able to recover," said Taj Izrin.

"That was one of the things I carried with me from the semi-finals through to the final — staying calm regardless of the situation."

Taj Izrin said his experience competing in real-world races, as well as at world championships, also helped him manage the pressure of competing at the Asian Games.

He said the pressure at a prestigious event such as the Asian Games was certainly different, but his previous experience had prepared him to deal with crucial situations.

"There is definitely pressure, especially at the Asian Games. But I have competed in real races and the World Series, so that experience helped me maintain my focus," he added.

That composure proved crucial as Taj Izrin fought back from a difficult start before securing the best possible position in the final race, which offered double points.

Taj Izrin now wants to build on his momentum by taking on bigger challenges, including the World Series in Singapore and opportunities to compete in the Nations Cup and Manufacturers Cup.

"I want to try to qualify for the Nations Cup and Manufacturers Cup. I feel that I now have a better understanding of the game's physics and how to control everything.

"So why not try to qualify for the Nations Cup or Manufacturers Cup next year? Those are among my targets going forward," he added