GT Sport has announced a number of changes to the regulations for the 2014 the International GT Open. One month before the GT Open Winter Series kicks off in Jerez the Spanish organisers confirmed a number of changes are to be introduced in order to adapt the series to the evolution of the GT racing market and to increase spectator interest in the series.
As expected the Super GT class will be opened up for GT3 cars with adaptations. The series will also introduce a driver categorization. Unlike the FIA driver categorization GT Sport will divide drivers into just two groups, Professional and Amateur.
Last season the Super GT category was open to FIA GT2, ACO GT2/E and GT2 Open cars. From this season on FIA GT3 homologated cars will be allowed and GT Sport allow modifications in gearbox settings, suspension, dampers and ride height.
The new driver categorization for International GT Open will be determined by taking into account the FIA categorization, race records and results in previous International GT Open races. GT Sport can change a driver status during the season.
Despite the modifications the new driver categorization will follow the FIA list as drivers with an FIA Platinum or Gold status will be classified as professional drivers and FIA Silver and Bronze drivers will be classified as amateur. GT Sport reserves the right to change a driver status from professional to amateur and vice versa based on their performances.
Both Super GT and GTS will be open for Pro-Am and Am entries, Pro entries will only be allowed in the Super GT category.
“We have been giving thorough thought to these measures and taken the advice of our competitors”, said GT Sport CEO Jesús Pareja. “I think we have come up with a good package that takes into account the evolution of the GT cars market and helps giving each category a clearer identity. I think this will result in a more balanced, updated and attractive situation for the championship”.
Marcel ten Caat
