Fellow Motorist: Ringo Chong, race team director & ex-racing driver

Mr Chong, in his 50s, is a Singaporean motorsport legend who has achieved great success as a professional racer since 1984, when he got his first local competition licence. We caught up with the gentleman during the 2024 F1 Singapore Grand Prix period.

How long have you been a motorist in Singapore?

Since 1984.

When did you get your driving licence? And how many attempts to pass the test?

When I was studying in Canada, passed the test on the first try. Converted it to a Singapore licence when I came back. 

What do you like about motoring in Singapore?

At least you know you are safe, and cars don’t get stolen or broken into as often as in some countries.

What do you dislike about motoring in Singapore?

Roads are getting uneven and bumpier after many roadworks. It takes a long while, months, before they are smoothened again.

What do you miss most about the good old days of motoring in Singapore?

Cars were more reasonably priced compared to the rest of the world.  

Any track-driving tips which can also make everyday motoring safer or smoother?

Anticipate. Be alert and aware of your surroundings. 

Which racetrack is your favourite and why?

Marina Bay Street Circuit, as it’s our home track. Racing here has always been a very special event for myself from 2008 till now. 

I had over 20 starts in more than 10 years of Marina Bay racing. Winning overall three times in the support races gives the circuit a special place in my heart - 2009 in Aston Martin Cup and twice in 2017 for Ferrari 488 Challenge.

Remember your first car under your name?

Ha-ha, a Nissan Sunny station wagon! 

It was a punishment gift from my dad for me to carry my go-karts to my weekend races in 1985. Because I crashed one of his BMWs when I was 18, after which I was banned from driving any of his nice cars for a while. 

Tell us about your current ride.

SLS AMG. It has been with me for almost 10 years. I love the design and shape of the car, a true modern classic. The 6.3-litre V8 is one of the sweetest and most robust engines ever built, plus it is still winning GT race championships till today!

You can drive the SLS slowly and enjoy its bubbly engine.

Ringo's successful racing career started in karts - this 1985 photo shows him victorious in that year's Singapore national karting championship.

What other cars are part of your household?

I am sentimental about cars, so I have a classic 911 that I kept for the last 25 years and a tiny BMW M2 Competition for my school runs with the kids - it reminds me of my E30 M3 race cars from the past.  

I also have a Toyota Alphard for family outings. It’s my wife’s favourite car for going to the market, she says because of its “sliding doors.“

What is your most memorable road car ever?

That’s a good question. I haven’t encountered any so far, as they seem to improve each year. Cars really capture the essence of a particular period. I like cars that are iconic and can withstand the test of time. 

What is your most memorable race car ever?

Too many special ones. But the DTM E30 M3 touched my heart and reminded me of my youth, when times were tough and we had to fight the big boys with a shoestring racing budget . 

How many trophies do you have in your cabinet and which three are the most precious to you?

I have a few hundred. I’ve given away many to my sponsors and also threw away lots of them, because I just don’t have the space. Some of the trophies were made of plastic and became tarnished after 30 years, but I kept the tags from most of them. 

My favourite trophies were from my Singapore wins and Ferrari Asia Pacific Championship. 

What was your very last race before retirement?

In an AMG GT3 in December 2019, winning the China Endurance Championship race on Wuhan street circuit just before Covid. 

What is your ultimate dream car?

Too many so far,  as cars are like shoes - never only one for all occasions!

Are your two kids into cars?

Not really, but I will teach them how to drive safely when the time comes. 

Which country is your favourite for road trips? 

We always enjoy our family road trips in Japan. The scenery is breathtaking and the food is consistently amazing. What truly stands out is the courtesy and grace of Japanese drivers - something we can all learn from and appreciate.

What have you been up to in the past two years?

I started TORO Racing in 2019 with the Chinese car dealer group and have been running it ever since, pursuing championships and striving to win races. 

Now in a semi-retired state, I spend my time with race cars - testing and driving them. I also spend lots of time with friends. I’m also coaching new drivers and motivating the younger ones to dream big and chase their dreams! 

I’m still living out the motorsport passion I've had since childhood.

Ringo Chong at the top of the support race podium on home ground.

Read More: Fellow Motorist: Derrick Lui, movie director, Oversteer

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