SRO Cancels GTWC Asia Season

Photo: SRO

GT World Challenge Asia powered by AWS will not take place this year, SRO Motorsports Group announced Tuesday, following numerous attempts to stage the championship amid the coronavirus pandemic.

According to a statement from SRO, country-specific social and travel restrictions and logistical complications have made it “impossible to organize a viable continental series in the region that lives up to the standards teams, drivers and fans have come to expect.”

SRO founder and CEO Stephane Ratel said in August they were making a “last attempt” to stage a three-event season in November and December, which has failed to materialize.

“Despite the determination and unwavering commitment of teams, drivers, partners, track promoters and sponsors it is not possible for us to go racing in Asia this year,” said Ratel.

“Naturally we are very disappointed, but also looking forward to a brighter 2021 when we can do our customers and the GT World Challenge name justice.

“The enthusiasm amongst existing teams and drivers remains undimmed, while pent up demand should help our Asian championship return bigger and better than ever before.”

All focus has shifted to 2021, with the finalization of a provisional six-round calendar, with several dates having already been secured and expected to be announced next month.

Events in Malaysia, Thailand, Japan and China, including the Shanghai 888 endurance race, are all planned for next year.

This year’s overall GT World Challenge classification will be based on the results of registered manufacturers competing in the European and American events only.

Mercedes-AMG, Ferrari and Lamborghini are the three registered manufacturers in the global championship.

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