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Global TCR boss heaps praise on TCR Australia debut season
Global TCR Series boss Marcello Lotti has heaped praise on the carsales TCR Australia Series, stating that he did not expect the series to launch in such spectacular fashion.
Lotti, the founder of the world-wide touring car phenomenon, was a special guest at the recent round at Phillip Island, where he admitted to being surprised about the standard that the Australian series has set in the opening two rounds.
“We were convinced that it was a good product, but we never expected any (of the success) that we have,” Lotti said.
“I have to say, we didn’t expect the that we would have a good start like we have in Australia. 18 cars at Phillip Island, probably 20 or 21 at the next race and eight brands represented. They have to be proud of this result.
“I’m very proud to have Australia join the TCR family, joining the 33 TCR championships around the world.
“It was difficult to imagine such a good start for Australia, but the result is astonishing. Very good.”
The rise and rise of the turbo-charged touring car class now sees 14 different car brands competing around the world, with eight of those already in Australia.
Fiat and MG has already announced serious intentions of competing in TCR in the future, while Lotti says that there are up to four new brands in the throws of homologating a vehicle to race.
“There are four brands working now for homologation, but it is difficult for me to say the name of the brands – I need to give them the opportunity to make their own press release,” he said.
“But all of them are interesting to Australian market and I think they could be good for the future of the Australian championship.”
The next round of the carsales TCR Australia Series will be held at The Bend Motorsport park on July 12-14. CLICK HERE to secure your tickets and be the first to see TCR Australia at the new South Australian circuit.