The winner of the 2020 TCR Australia series will be given a wildcard entry in either a round of the FIA World Touring Car Cup or an international TCR race of significance, whilst the best rookie will be given a test day with a European TCR team.
The prizes have been described by the series promoter, Australian Racing Group, as “two of the biggest international prizes ever offered in Australian motorsport”.
The WTCR or international TCR race wildcard entry will be awarded after the final round of the season, which takes place at Sandown Raceway in September 2020.
Whilst an entry into WTCR is possible, the prize could also include the much-anticipated TCR race at Mount Panorama, Bathurst, which is also set to take place after the finale.
The prize for the best rookie driver will be known as the Michelin Rookie of the Year and will be open to drivers who are entering into their first full major national series. Drivers must enter all rounds of the championship to be eligible.
“This is another significant announcement for TCR Australia, its drivers and teams,” said Matt Braid, Director of ARG.
“Both the wildcard prize for the series champion, and the rookie test prize, continues to underline the global relevance of TCR Australia by offering drivers of all experience and calibres the opportunity to progress their careers in identical machinery on the world stage.
“The 2020 season is shaping up really well. There are more cars arriving, more teams interested in competing and an unprecedented amount of drivers keen to race in the Series.
“Prizes like these that demonstrate the international opportunities the TCR category provides are likely to spark even more interest.”
Will Brown, the Provisional 2019 TCR Australia champion, added that he would also be interested in taking part in an international TCR event.
“I thought that this year’s cash prize was great, but the chance to race against the world’s best touring car drivers is unbelievable,” said Brown.
“I’d really love the chance to race overseas in a WTCR race, or an international TCR event. I’ve watched the racing and the level of competition is high. It would be great to test yourself against them.
“TCR Australia has been such an enjoyable season. The competition has been strong and the racing fantastic. To be crowned the first champion is great and I’m really looking forward to the final round at The Bend, wrapping it all up and celebrating with the team.
“At this stage, I’m not exactly sure what I’m racing next year, however, if there’s the right opportunity, I will definitely do TCR again and I’ll definitely be fighting as hard as I can to win the title.”