Thrilling Battles at Menemen
The Menemen Autocross, organised by the İzmir Otomobil Sporları Kulübü (İOSK) with Ege Asal Metal as sponsor, took place on 18–19 October 2025 at the Seyrek Autocross Track. Covering Rounds 1 and 2 of the 2025 Izmir Autocross Cup, the event's first day produced high-tempo battles, while the second day's racing was cancelled for safety reasons after heavy rain left the track extremely muddy.
The battle on the dirt surface in Saturday 18 October's opening round gave spectators unforgettable moments. With 29 competitors starting across five categories, drivers fought both the clock and the tough surface conditions. The grandstands were packed all day, once again underlining the growing popularity of motorsport in the Aegean region.
In Category 1, Erkan Kotan took the win with a time of 03:50.90, followed by Onur Sınırdere in second and Berat Yıldırım in third. In Category 2, a breathtaking fight was decided by just 0.06 seconds, with victory going to İbrahim Yılmaz. Faruk Sayın took second, while Cem Yudulmaz crossed the line third.
In Category 3, GMG Racing Rally Team driver Kubilay Ersin Türkmen won with a time of 03:48.25, with Utku Adsan second. Third place went to Mitat Diker, who competed in two categories with two different cars, demonstrating both his experience and stamina.
In Category 4, Gürol Baranlı set the fastest time of the day, finishing on top of his category with 03:24.53. Mert Yudulmaz was second, just 0.42 seconds behind, with Kaan Yudulmaz third. In Category 5, Eren Alver was the day's winner with a strong 03:45.18.
After heavy rain began around midday on Sunday 19 October, the Seyrek Autocross Track was quickly covered in a thick layer of mud. Following an inspection, the Organising Committee and the Stewards judged the risk to driver safety and car control to be too high and cancelled the racing.
İzmir Otomobil Sporları Kulübü President Mithat Diker said in his assessment: "On the first day it was the dust that decided things, on the second day it was nature. We have put behind us a fine event built on competitor safety, respect for nature and team solidarity. I thank all the competitors, teams, marshals, and the medical and safety crews, as well as the motorsport fans who filled the grandstands."
