In a thrilling conclusion to Round 2 of the Suzuka 5 Hours Race, part of Japan’s Eneos Super Taikyu Series 2026, the TKRI (Tatsuya Kataoka Racing Invitation) team, featuring a Mercedes-AMG GT3 Evo designed to honor Marin Kitagawa from My Dress-Up Darling, clinched a commendable second place on the podium. The driving team included DAISUKE, Tatsuya Kataoka, Yuki Nakayama, and Yuya Motojima. The victory in the ST-X class went to the Mercedes-AMG GT3 from Craft-Bamboo Racing, piloted by Jinzu Sun, Kakunoshin Ota, and Adali Fong. The Denso Lexus RC F GT3, which had led for a significant portion of the race, finished in third position.
Neon Genesis Evangelion vs. My Dress-Up Darling on the Track
A memorable moment occurred when the Evangelion Racing’s EVA RT Unit-01 Monster Audi RS3 LMS car encountered the Mercedes-AMG GT3 Evo representing Marin Kitagawa. This marked a unique intersection of anime properties in a real-world racing event, with the car inspired by the beloved cosplayer surprisingly finishing ahead of the Evangelion-themed vehicle.
Marin Kitagawa Cosplay Reigns as Race Queen
Renowned Japanese race queen Manae Miyakoshi embraced the role of Marin Kitagawa, donning the character’s signature attire. Throughout the weekend, Miyakoshi expressed her delight in representing such a globally popular series as My Dress-Up Darling (known in Japan as Sono Bisque Doll wa Koi wo Suru). The anime has captured hearts with its slice-of-life narrative, focusing on the passion for cosplay and personal hobbies. Kitagawa’s vibrant personality and her developing relationship with Gojo Wakana, a skilled tailor dedicated to learning about cosplay, are key highlights of the series.
The Iwatsuki district, a significant location for the anime and home to TKRI’s main sponsor Matsunaga Construction, served as the backdrop for promotional activities. This collaboration aimed to broadly promote the alliance with “Iwatsuki, the City of Dolls” through Super Taikyu race events and local festivities in Saitama City’s Iwatsuki district.
