The inaugural TCR New Zealand Championship and Super Production Series will be reduced to just three-rounds following a calendar amendment.
An initial four-round schedule had both series’ kick off at Manfeild on January 22-24, the same weekend as the New Zealand Grand Prix.
However, Motorsport New Zealand has issued a revised calendar that now sees the 2021 season starting at Timaru on March 5-6.
Several factors drove the decision to tweak the calendar including international shipping delays for parts and logistical difficulties with the New Zealand Grand Prix occurring on the same weekend.
“Whilst COVID-19 continues to affect the sport third-hand, it highlights the need to remain flexible for the future,” said category manager Lindsay Dodd.
“We are still pleased to be able to deliver a strong season and I know our competitors are looking forward to finally getting underway and enjoying the amazing circuits the South Island has to offer.”
Unfortunately, the now cancelled Manfeild round was set to be the sole North Island meeting. Consequently, all three rounds will now be staged in the mainland.
The new opening round at Timaru International Raceway will be the first time in seven-years that championship level touring car racing will race on the South Canterbury circuit.
“It became pretty apparent that the opening round wasn’t going to work for numerous reasons,” said MotorSport New Zealand Acting CEO, Elton Goonan.
“This presents Timaru with a great opportunity to welcome a new era of the New Zealand Touring Car Championship.”
Following the series opener at Timaru, TCR and Super Production will venture to Teretonga Park on March 20-21. The condensed season will then conclude at Highlands Motorsport Park on April 23-24.
TCR/Super Production series 2021 Calendar:
- Round 1 – Timaru, 5-6 March 2021
- Round 2 – Teretonga Park, 20-21 March 2021
- Round 3 – Highlands, 23-24 April 2021
Bloody hopeless why can’t Motorsport NZ get its Shit together competitors have invested a lot in these cars and deserve better
Maybe not enough competitors have invested in tcr which is the problem? But what is the real reason for the cancellation ? This seems very wishy washy
Totally useless.
There are only 3 cars ready so the class was opened up to Ferrari Challenge, Porsche Carrera Cup, and GT4.
Even that seems to be not enough.
The class has been delayed a year or two now ?
Organisers should take that as a sign no one is interested and can the series completely.
Or let the Australians handle the organisation.
😛