Ratel: Strong Suzuka Grid Will Bring “Momentum” to IGTC

Photo: SRO

Stephane Ratel believes that SRO Motorsports Group’s larger-than-expected grid for next month’s revived Suzuka 1000km will bring “momentum” to Intercontinental GT Challenge, with the target of attracting more manufacturers to the globe-trotting GT3 series in 2026.

Released on Monday, the latest version of the Suzuka entry list now confirms 33 cars, surpassing Ratel’s initial target of 25 cars for its return to Suzuka for the first time since 2019.

It comes after years of behind-the-scenes work that has seen SRO take over as the event’s promoter.

“We’re very pleased,” Ratel told Sportscar365. “When we started speaking to the circuit to put it back, it was difficult because Mobilityland/Suzuka were very shy about it.

“It took some years. The question was, ‘Do you think you can have 20 cars?’ That was the initial question.

“It only reflects on the general success of SRO in Asia. Asia today is the fastest progressing market we have. It’s just the translation of it.”

Ratel believes that SRO’s strong foundation in Asia, with a capacity grid in GT World Challenge Asia powered by AWS, has played a key part in Suzuka’s entry success.

“Suzuka is a big plus for us because really since COVID, IGTC suffered and to be back with the 1000km of Suzuka is an important event,” he said.

“To go back with a bang, with a full grid, we can consider over 30 cars is a very, very good grid.

“It was also a big financial risk for us because now we’re promoting the event. Before the Suzuka 10 Hours was promoted by Mobilityland; now we’re the promoter of it, with some kind of partnership and promotion.

“I’m very pleased. It’s the most positive news we’ve had this year.”

SRO’s next step, Ratel says, will be to continue to grow IGTC in its other regions, which he believes will come through additional commitments from manufacturers.

BMW, Porsche, Ferrari and Mercedes-AMG are the only registered GT3 manufacturers this season.

IGTC reached a record nine brands registered for the 2020 season prior to its disruption due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“In order for an IGTC race to work, we need a strong national series,” he said. “It’s the same challenge in Australia. For the Bathurst 12 Hour to grow, we need more cars in GT World Challenge Australia. It’s based on that.

“Also, I have to say also from what I hear, the Indianapolis 8 Hour should be better as well. I think it’s gaining traction.”

When asked what the Suzuka grid will do for the long-term, Ratel said: “It will bring momentum to the whole IGTC.”

He added: “At the moment, we’re fishing for more manufacturers to join. I don’t know if we’ll succeed but to have a strong event like this in Asia is important.”

John Dagys

John Dagys is the founder and Editor-in-Chief of Sportscar365. Dagys spent eight years as a motorsports correspondent for FOXSports.com and SPEED Channel and has contributed to numerous other motorsports publications worldwide. Contact John