Vallelunga in Italy will host the third round of the 2023 TCR World Tour, after Italy’s National Sporting Authority ACI struck a deal with global TCR rights holder WSC Group.
The event will take place at the circuit near Rome on 9 – 11 June, as part of the same racing weekend as the third round of the TCR Italy championship.
The event will thus be promoted and organised by ACI Vallelunga and ACI Sport. 18 cars from the TCR Italy regulars will be allowed to take part in the races which are part of the TCR World Tour.
Last year, TCR Italy averaged an impressive grid size of 33 competitors, meaning if a similar series entry signs up for 2023, several drivers are likely to miss the cut.
The 2023 TCR World Tour will get underway in tandem with TCR Europe, the opening round taking place at Portimão in Portugal on 29 – 30 April, followed by the second event at Spa-Francorchamps in Belgium in May.
Other events already confirmed for this year’s TCR World Tour are at the Hungaroring in Hungary and Mount Panorama in Bathurst, Australia.
“We are delighted that Vallelunga joins the list of the venues that will receive the TCR World Tour in its maiden season,” said Marcello Lotti, President of WSC.
“We have excellent relationship with both ACI Sport and the circuit, and we thank them for their enthusiastic cooperation in bringing TCR World Tour to Italy.
“The track layout is one of those that suits better to touring car competition and one of the most demanding in terms of cars’ set up and driving skills, which always results in exciting races and lots of fun for the spectators.”
Marco Rogano, CEO ACI Sport, is pleased to see ACI deepening its cooperation with WSC.
“We are very proud to welcome the new-born TCR World Tour within the frame of the ACI Racing Weekends,” said Rogano.
“During the latest years, ACI Sport has done its utmost to help TCR competition growing at national level, achieving stunning results.
“We are happy to strengthen our bounds with the WSC Group giving our drivers the opportunity to compete in a world-level event.
“ACI Sport and Vallelunga have immediately started working to make this event possible and postponed the TCR Italy’s event to the mid of October.”
Alfredo Scala, CEO Autodromo Vallelunga added: “We have always reckoned that Vallelunga suits specially to touring cars.
“Here, the best cars and bravest drivers have faced each-others in exciting battles. This belief of ours is confirmed by the inclusion of Vallelunga in the calendar of the inaugural season of the TCR World Tour that will add spice to the weekend we organise together with ACI Sport.
“Now we start to work for welcoming the TCR World Tour competitors and put them in the position to thrill the crowd.”