Jonathan Lester

Jonathan Lester is a racing driver hailing from Palmerston North, New Zealand, born on December 8, 1989. A third-generation racer, motorsport runs deep in his family, with his grandparents establishing the Manfeild circuit in 1973. Lester began his circuit racing career at age 13, initially in Formula Vee, before transitioning to Formula Challenge and other series. Unlike many drivers who start with karting, Lester took an unconventional path, quickly demonstrating his talent.

Lester has primarily focused on GT and touring car racing since 2012, competing extensively throughout the Asia-Pacific region. His career includes stints in series like Super GT, Asian Le Mans Series, GT Asia Series, China GT, and Lamborghini Super Trofeo Asia. He secured second overall in the Lamborghini Super Trofeo Asia in 2016 and has achieved multiple wins and podiums in various GT series. In 2017, he joined Gulf Racing in the GT300 class of Japanese Super GT, earning a podium finish on his debut. In New Zealand, he has competed in the Toyota Racing Series and the V8 SuperTourers Endurance Championship.

Throughout his career, Lester has achieved several championship titles, including the NZ Endurance Champion in 2013 and NZ Formula Challenge Champion in 2005. He has also been recognized with awards such as the Porsche Motorsport Talent Scholarship and the Steel Trophy, representing New Zealand's top driver under 21 years of age. Currently holding an FIA Silver racing license, he continues to compete in GT racing, showcasing his pragmatic approach and dedication to the sport. In 2025, he is scheduled to participate in the Asian Le Mans Series in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, as well as the 24H Series Europe, driving a KRC BMW M4 GT3.