Haruka Asahina, a high school student and Formula 4 driver for the modest Komaki Motors team, navigates the racing world with a guarded, stubborn demeanor, rejecting outside assistance to pursue his goals alone. This isolation traces to a childhood trauma: his father, Toru Asahina, an F3 racer, perished in a rain-soaked crash during practice. Consumed by misplaced guilt over cheering his father’s risky push that day, Haruka internalized self-reliance, avoiding emotional bonds to shield himself from further loss. His driving mirrors his father’s dry-condition techniques but falters in wet weather, echoing unresolved grief. Juggling part-time newspaper deliveries with racing, financial strain amplifies his solitary grind. A catastrophic tire puncture during an early race triggers a raw, public meltdown, captured by freelance photographer Kouya Madoka. This exposure becomes a catalyst, as Kouya’s persistent support nudges Haruka toward accepting collaboration and sponsorships—a stark shift from his lone-wolf ethos. Clashing with elite Belsorriso rivals Satsuki Harunaga and Toshiki Tokumaru sharpens his resolve. Despite lucrative offers, he stays loyal to Komaki Motors, determined to honor Toru’s legacy through skill alone rather than corporate backing. This loyalty gradually evolves into mentoring younger teammates, reflecting his growing appreciation for shared effort over individualism. Yet his aggressive tactics—inherited from Toru’s bold style—often sabotage races through premature tire wear, embodying the struggle between legacy and adaptability. These failures fuel his drive to refine his approach, seeking victories that blend his father’s spirit with his own identity. Residing with the Komaki family, he shares a brotherly rapport with mechanic Kotarou, while childhood friend Alice Mitsuzawa bridges his world with her admiration for rival Satsuki. These ties weave a complex web of loyalty, rivalry, and personal growth, anchoring Haruka’s journey in both familial echoes and newfound connections.