The 2022 Castrol Toyota Racing Series will begin in mid-January and will return to the South Island.
This year, the mainland was left round-less in a coronavirus-affected season, which featured just three rounds at two circuits and a handful of drivers.
However, with New Zealand largely back to pre-Covid routines regarding sport, next year’s TRS is set to revert to its usual look.
Circuits and a complete calendar are yet to be announced. Still, Category manager Nicolas Caillol confirmed today that the 18th season of TRS would have the series head south.
“Things are taking shape nicely and we are very much looking forward to a South Island return,” Caillol said.
“The FT60 fleet is currently in preparation for the 2022 season with all cars undergoing full engine and gearbox rebuilds for what will be their third season – and second full season – of racing.”
Border closures meant this year’s championship was entirely made up of Kiwi drivers.
However, next season is expected to feature a number of international junior talents.
“There’s no shortage of interest and we have a much longer run-in period this year so we are very confident we’ll have a number of internationals in addition to drivers from Australia, who will hopefully be able to travel quarantine-free to New Zealand,” Caillol said.
Despite the shortened season and reduced grid size, this year’s standout highlight was the 66th New Zealand Grand Prix at Hampton Downs.
Dubbed the ‘Race of Champions’, several of New Zealand’s best motorsport talents, young and old, tried their hand at vying for the famed trophy.
Caillol applauded the success of this year’s Grand Prix and anticipates another great event next season.
“The Grand Prix was watched all over the world in 2021, and that was good for the championship’s future as a whole.
“Combined with the relative normality of life in New Zealand compared to the rest of the world, TRS remains – perhaps even more so in the current global climate – the best way to prepare for the main season with a competitive winter series.”
Main Image: Bruce Jenkins