It was revealed on the 23rd that singer Masahiko Kondo (59) will be returning as a driver for the first time in 16 years in the second round of the Super Taikyu (S-Taikyu) Series 2024, the Fuji SUPER TEC 24 Hours Race (24th-26th, Fuji Speedway).

As a member of "ROOKIE Racing", owned by Toyota Chairman Akio Toyoda, he entered the "ST-Q" class for development vehicles as a driver. His participation as a driver, his first since the S-Taikyu series in Tokachi, Hokkaido in July 2008, was made possible by Toyoda's invitation. He also appeared in the free practice session that day, and excitedly stated, "I usually work as a director and on the operations side, but of course the most fun part is racing." He also turned 60 in July, and enthusiastically stated, "Look forward to the power of the 60th!"