Jonathan Mogotsi: How an 'extroverted introvert' went from sim racing to driving for VW SA

• Jonathan Mogotsi is a racing driver for the Volkswagen Motorsport team.

• With no formal training, Mogotsi climbed the motorsport ladder after proving his worth as a simulation racer.

• Mogotsi races for VW Motorsport in the 2022 GTC series.

• For more motoring stories, visit Wheels24

Jonathan Mogotsi is a clear example of the adage 'you see my glory, but you don't know my story'. The youngster is a familiar face in South African motorsport circles and is an active competitor for the Volkswagen Motorsport team. In recent years, he represented Volkswagen South Africa in the SupaCup, but will be competing in the Global Touring Cars (GTC) series in 2022.

But did you know that Jono (as he's affectionately known) did not have it easy coming into his own as a racing driver? His story is that of a motorsport fan who took his passion from the screen to the track by grabbing the opportunities that came his way. The seizing of chances meant leaving his family behind while he chased a dream in Britain, followed by signing up for more talent-search activations upon returning to South Africa.

Yet, contrary to what some might believe, Mogotsi did not have the financial backup many drivers enjoy, and he fought and clawed his way to where he is today. The journey was anything but easy, but the challenges could do little to wipe the broad smile off his face.

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Bond between father and son

Jono and his father always shared a special bond and, perhaps even without him realising, it set the path for his career. The two would visit the local gaming arcade on Sundays before heading home to