Image Comics is revving up for the launch of M1: Monster Racing League, and AIPT has an exclusive first look at five covers from the upcoming series, including three from issue #1 and early looks at issues #3 and #4.
Exclusive cover reveal
The new ongoing series is created by father-daughter writing duo Robert Windom and Lily Windom, with art by Jae Lee and colors by June Chung. The covers shown here highlight the high-energy, neon-soaked aesthetic of the series, blending manga influences with a bold, modern comic style.
Issue #1 will feature multiple covers from Lee and Chung, alongside a variant by Caldecott Honoree Jon J Muth.
The additional covers for issues #3 and #4 offer an early glimpse at the evolving look and characters of the series as it builds momentum.
A high-speed new world
M1: Monster Racing League follows 17-year-old Dev, a racing-obsessed teen who moves to Japan and discovers a hidden underground world of illegal street racing. In this realm, speed is everything and racers push beyond human limits through mutation and magic. The story unfolds in a near-future Tokyo filled with shapeshifters, neon lights, and high-stakes competition.
The series draws inspiration from K-pop, manga, and anime, with a visual identity that leans into bold color and kinetic movement. An animated adaptation is also in development from Emmy Award-winning writer and producer Jeffrey M. Howard.
Creative team on the ride ahead
“Lily and I created an exciting, mysterious universe, with complex, interesting characters that Jae and June brought to life with some of the best art I’ve ever seen in comics,” said Robert Windom. “I can’t wait for readers to take this wild ride with us!”
“I love working on M1: Monster Racing League with my dad, Jae, and June,” said Lily Windom. “Being able to tell a story about teenagers facing these larger-than-life situations means a lot to me.”
Lee shared his excitement about the project and the opportunity to explore a new style. “Robert and Lily have crafted an epic saga which has inspired me to try a style I’ve always wanted to jump into but was always afraid to: manga! Or at least my attempt at it,” he said. “I’m having a blast drawing this and I can’t wait for people to see what we’ve been up to. We’re in it for the long haul. It’s the biggest commitment I’ve ever made in my entire career. The amount of issues we have planned is daunting. Please check it out.”
Chung added, “M1: Monster Racing League has been a challenge. I’ve had to rethink how I color. I’m using a different palette from what I’m accustomed to in order to convey the energy of youth and the fantastical creatures that live in this world. This book is going to be fun!!!”
Check out a preview below!
M1: Monster Racing League #1 hits comic shops June 10, with the ongoing series set to release monthly.
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