Pirelli World Challenge kicks off a new era with the launch of the SprintX series this weekend at Canadian Tire Motorsport Park, with a pair of 60-minute races for GT and GTS-class machinery.
Sportscar365 takes a look at the rules and regulations for the newest GT sprint racing series:
***Eligibility: GT/GT3, GTS/GT4 and Cup cars (Ferrari Challenge, Porsche 911 GT3 Cup, Lamborghini Huracan Super Trofeo).
***Races: Two 60-minute races per weekend, featuring mandatory pit stops and driver changes.
***Driver Lineups: Two drivers per car; Pro-Am or Am classifications utilizing FIA driver ratings. Platinum/Bronze, Gold/Silver, Gold/Bronze, Silver/Silver, Silver/Bronze and Bronze/Bronze allowed.
***Qualifying: Split between GT/Cup and GTS/GT4 cars; Designated Am driver must qualify and start Race 1. Fastest race lap from second driver in Race 1 sets grid for Race 2. Second driver starts Race 2.
***Starts: Rolling starts in both races.
***Pit Window: 25-35 minutes; Open for cars after passing checkered/green flag at start/finish line. Drive-through penalty assessed for cars not pitting within allocated pit window.
***Pit Stops: Mandatory driver change with one tire change permitted; Minimum 90-second pit time (from pit-in to pit-out), including 60 seconds in pit box.
***Points: Each driver scores points after completion of minimum drive time of 25 minutes or after taking checkered flag. Points allocation identical to regular PWC races.
***Championship: Series will award the SprintX Sportsman Cup, which recognizes the highest year-end points gentleman competitor in SprintX. The team that accumulates the most points at the end of the season will be awarded the SprintX Championship cup.