DTM, Super GT Join Forces for 2014

Steve · Oct 16, 2012

Another merger...sort of...in this case a merger of technical regulations:

Super GT to adopt new DTM technical regulations, beginning in 2014...

John Dagys | Posted October 16, 2012 | Chicago, IL (speedtv.com)

DTM's goal of expanding to a global platform took a significant step forward this week, as officials from ITR and GTA have signed an agreement that will see the German-based touring car series' technical regulations be adopted in Japan's Super GT series, beginning in 2014.

The landmark four-year contract, signed Tuesday in Tokyo, will enable current DTM manufacturers Audi, BMW and Mercedes-Benz to compete against Super GT makes such as Toyota, Nissan and Honda and vice-versa, in both championships.

â€œThis is a very special day for all those involved but in addition, it also has got outstanding significance for the entire motor racing world," said Hans Werner Aufrecht, Chairman of DTM rights holder and promoter ITR e.V. "This unique cooperation was made possible by the right parties getting involved at the perfect point in time.

â€œThis cooperation of GTA and ITR based on the new technical regulations is a dream come true. We believe that this milestone in motor-racing history will not only help to reduce the costs dramatically but at the same time, it also should help improving safety and creating spectacular racing with equal chances for the manufacturers and teams, thus entertaining the millions of fans all over the world.â€

Massaki Banndoh, Chairman of the GTA, added: â€œWe believe that this agreement will contribute greatly to the development of both the SUPER GT and DTM race series. We also think that deepening the relationship between DTM in Europe and SUPER GT in Asia toward the future may lead to new developments â€“ such as organizing exchange races for both series â€“ that have got what it takes to bring new excitement and pleasure to the fans around the world."

It's expected that a transition period, which would allow current GT500-spec cars to compete, will be enforced through a Balance of Performance system in Super GT, which currently sees significant manufacturer involvement in GT500 and an increasing presence of GT3-based cars in GT300, its second-tier category.

Joint technical working groups between manufacturers and organizers will also be established to help with the exchange of information between the two series.

â€œThe GTA, ITR and the manufacturers involved are entering virgin soil,â€ said Head of Audi Motorsport, Dr. Wolfgang Ulrich. "The Super GT in Japan and DTM have got many common ideas â€“ a fact that became evident in the intense discussions we had in recent years.

"Now, these organizations are going to cooperate on the basis of shared technical regulations. A move that will guarantee maximum safety, spectacular sport and cost-efficient motor racing.â€

While ITR had been in negotiations with GRAND-AM on prospects of launching a U.S.-based DTM series, it's believed those talks have subsided.
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