Yoshihide Muroya

The benchmark. The craftsman. A champion chasing the crown again.

Inspired in childhood by a fascination with flight, Yoshihide Muroya has built one of the most respected careers in global air racing. After establishing himself as an elite aerobatic pilot, he became the first Asian competitor in the Red Bull Air Race World Championship in 2009, and in 2017, the first Asian World Champion in the series.

Muroya’s flying style is distinctive. Known for his two-handed control technique — often described as a “samurai style” — he applies pressure from his fingertips with precision, balancing smooth control with decisive inputs. His approach reflects a philosophy of calm execution and accuracy under pressure.

Preparation is central to his performance. Before each flight, Muroya clears his focus through meditation, entering the course with complete concentration — a trait that defines his consistency at the highest level.

Through his long-standing partnership with LEXUS, Muroya has also pushed the technical development of his aircraft, applying insights from automotive engineering to refine the relationship between pilot and machine. This integration of human performance and technology has become a key factor in his competitiveness.

In the 2025 AIR RACE X season, Muroya finished second overall, narrowly missing the championship title.

“Whatever the situation, I will see it through to the end. I will keep searching for the chance to turn it around.”

Now, in 2026, the former world champion returns with one objective:

To reclaim his place at the top of AIR RACE X.