Race Group Structure
31st October 2008
A new top group for FIA GT3 homologated or equivalent pace cars is being strongly considered for 2009 in addition to the current three group structure. GTC4 will be aimed at cars homologated to FIA GT4 and may include models such as the new KTM Xbow and Lotus 211 as well as Ginetta G50's and the Aston Martin N24.
Haynes commented "we can not put our head in the sand and ignore the fact that budgets will be tight next year so it's essential the GT Cup which is designed for amateur drivers caters for cars which are less costly to run". He continued "GT4 and GT3 paced cars have been proven to work together and our shorter distance twin race format should reduce the number of faster cars which lap slower ones".
Commitments have already been received from seven entrants in the proposed new GTC1 so it's looking highly likely to run". The GT Cup will continue to not allow super modified and silhouette GT's to enter. Haynes finished "it's important to set a limit of the speed of GTC1 cars which we have done successfully this year".
Further cost reduction measures include restrictions on modifications to cars in this years GTC2 group. Specific restrictions on modifications to run Porsche 996 GT3 or Ferrari 360 GT in GTC2 will be introduced. Drivers with cars which they wish to be modified beyond those allowed will have to run in the next group up.
