The future of the world’s first all-electric touring car series has been thrown into doubt, after Discovery Sports Events announced it is withdrawing from promoting the FIA eTouring Car World Cup (ETCR).
Laat year, Discovery also called time on its commitment to promote the FIA World Touring Car Cup (WTCR), and it has now also decided to pull out of promoting its sister series.
The future of the series had been in doubt, with no news on a 2023 calendar or any announcements from the participating marques – Hyundai, CUPRA and Romeo Ferraris.
It is not yet clear if the series will continue under another promoter, with rights holder WSC Group or will have a ‘hiatus’ year.
A statement from Discovery was released on Saturday afternoon:
“Following a series of discussions with various stakeholders, Discovery Sports Events announces it will not promote the ETCR, eTouring Car World Cup during 2023.
“Over recent months, there have been extensive discussions around the next phase of the series, including its sporting and regulatory format as a priority. In particular, recognising the importance of further integrating the traditional Touring Car DNA within the series to create the best stage for electric car racing. One with a packed grid that maximizes the appeal to fans, manufacturers, and drivers.
“Despite the efforts made by all parties to finalise the new sporting and regulatory framework that meets the needs of the manufacturers, the necessary conditions could not be implemented in a satisfactory manner ahead of launching a full season.
“Introduced as the first multi-brand all-electric touring car series in 2021 and promoted by Discovery Sports Events over the past two seasons, it has delivered action-packed races to motorsports fans with sustainability and innovation at its core.”