It's very clear that The Toyota Gaming Engine (TTGE) has outdone itself, kicking off 2026 with an absolute bang. Not only has the tournament organizer, powered by Toyota SA and operated in conjunction with African Cyber Gaming League (ACGL), announced a big new tournament, but also the TTGE Vibe My Ride campaign, with huge prizes for local gamers to compete for.

First up, the GT Cup flagship tournament is back and better than ever before. For those who don't know, it features Toyota’s real-world vehicles in the virtual world of Gran Turismo 7. It's a favorite of the people, offering fantastic racing game esports competition aplenty.

Already hyped to join? Of course, you are! Simply head on over to the GT Cup registration page on the TTGE website to get started. In case you don't have one already, register for a free TTGE account.

In 2026, the format for the GT Cup has been updated, which means there are more rounds. In fact, there are a full two rounds, with four races each, which translates to more chances to reach the finals. Check out the important dates below.

• Round 1: 2 February – 20 February 2026
• Round 2: 16 February – 6 March 2026
• Grand Finale: 11 March 2026

Prize Pool distribution:

• 1st place: R10 000 cash
• 2nd place: R7 500 cash
• 3rd place: R2 500 cash

As per a Press Release we've received, Tasneem Lorgat, the General Manager Marketing and Communications at Toyota South Africa Motors, said that:

"The GT Cup is one of our most anticipated tournaments, and TTGE Vibe My Ride takes it to a whole new level. We’re proud to build experiences that welcome more players, celebrate local talent, and make gaming feel exciting and attainable for everyone."

Not only is the GT Cup fantastic, but there's also the bold new TTGE Vibe My Ride campaign to enjoy. It's what TTGE describes as a "playful nod to the iconic 2000s reality show that transformed everyday cars into dream machines," and that gets us quite hyped.

TTGE explains that: "TTGE Vibe My Ride taps into nostalgia while spotlighting the array of gamers and gaming enthusiasts we want to speak to. Starring as amusing alter egos of themselves – Host Khanyisa Unfiltered Xhosa, cosplayer Tara, comedian Dillan Oliphant, and entertainer Carpo More give this campaign an extremely watchable edge."

So what precisely can you win, and how? Well, there are three ways to win in total. We've already discussed competing in the actual GT Cup 2026. Check out the other two pieces of Vibe My Ride below.

What are you waiting for? Start those engines!

Don’t forget to follow TTGE on X, Facebook, and Instagram. While you are at it, follow ACGL as well.

Header image via TTGE.