New GT Open Cup Series Launched

Spanish promoter GT Sport Organizacion has launched a new Europe-wide series, known as the GT Open Cup, which is to run its first season in 2019.

The competition will be open to cars “one ladder below” below the GT3 formula, including GT4 cars and single-make models such as the Ferrari 488 Challenge, Lamborghini Huracan Super Trofeo and Porsche 911 Carrera Cup.

It will be split into two classes – Pro-Am and Am – and will be contested over six race weekends supporting the International GT Open series.

The provisional GT Open Cup schedule includes stops at Paul Ricard, Hockenheim, Spa-Francorchamps, Silverstone, Barcelona and Monza, with each event consisting of two 55-minute races for two-driver crews.

Michelin has been confirmed as the official tire supplier, while Panta will be the official fuel partner.

A Balance of Performance system will be brought in to equalize the different types of machinery, which are intended to run five to six seconds slower than current GT3 cars.

Data collecting sessions have already been carried out at Monza and the Hungaroring while another run-out is set to take place soon at Circuit de Catalunya.

“We are delighted to present this new project which stems from the huge success of GT racing in recent years and by market demand, and which we have been preparing for some time, listening also to all the players, such as teams, drivers and manufacturers,” said Jesus Pareja, CEO of GT Sport.

“With the GT Open Cup, we want to offer teams and drivers fond of GT racing a new racing option that provides high performance, close competition and thrilling emotions at a reasonable cost.

“I am sure that racing on the most prestigious tracks in Europe, alongside the successful International GT Open and benefitting from top-quality TV broadcasts and the support of faithful partners like Michelin, we can provide a very attracting proposition to existing and new GT teams and drivers.”

2019 GT Open Cup Schedule:

April 27-28 – Circuit Paul Ricard
May 25-26 – Hockenheim
June 22-23 – Spa-Francorchamps
Sept. 7-8 – Silverstone
Sept. 21-22 – Barcelona
Oct. 12-13 – Monza