Abu Dhabi: Bosses at Yas Marina Circuit on Tuesday announced the return of its homegrown, single-make championship, the TRD 86 Cup, and are calling on all budding racing drivers to register.
The event returns following a successful first season, which saw Karim Al Azhari beat off fierce competition to be crowned champion.
The championship gives amateur drivers the chance to lead their own race team in a competition at the UAE’s home of Formula One. Organisers say the fact that last year’s grid enjoyed strong Emirati participation is a testament to the popularity of the sport here.
The selected competitors will receive their own customised, race-ready Toyota 86 car — theirs to keep — and will get to pick their own race support team. Yas Marina Circuit will provide each team with further support from a professional crew.
With all cars being of equal specification, drivers can hone and develop their racing skills over the course of the championship on an even playing field. The season will take place over 12 rounds on six race weekends between October 2015 and April 2016, and fans can attend for Dh25 per event.
For an entry cost of Dh177,000, drivers will receive their car, based on the TMG GT86. They will race head-to-head on different layouts at the circuit, competing for a place on the podium.
The race package includes other benefits, such as a waiver on race fees for the first season, two free track days at Yas Marina Circuit and 60 per cent discount on all subsequent track days, plus a choice of a private tuition session or licence assessment.
Those interested in taking part can register online at yasmarinacircuit.com
