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WTCC / FIA GT split

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The WTCC and FIA GT looks set to split next year and not run together. The reason for the split seems to be that KSO (WTCC promoters) and Eurosport want the FIA GT races to be shortened from three hours to two hours to maximise TV time.

This is something that the FIA GT organisers do not want.

“We cannot agree to this. A two-hour race would open up the event to sprint car, which is against the spirit of endurance racing. Naturally my preferred option is to stay with WTCC, however, we will push ahead for a separate series. Things are not final and if we can sort things out later then fine,” Stephane Ratel, FIA GT boss, said to Autosport.

An FIA WTCC spokesman said the following about the subject:

“Currently the World Touring Car paddock has to assemble on Thursday with the FIA GT paddock because they start a day earlier. We want them to have shorter races and shorter meetings. If they accept this then fine. The plan was to continue together for another year at least but we could separate.”