The start of the 2025 TCR Australia season has been pushed back to late June, after the series has elected not to proceed with the planned event at the Wanneroo Raceway in Perth.
The series had been set for a first-ever event in Perth at the circuit previously known as the Barbagallo Raceway, but the start of the season has now been delayed following consultation with teams.
It is the second delay to the start of the season, which had originally been penned to begin in New Zealand for the first time before that event was cancelled earlier in the year.
The cancellation of the Perth event, originally set for 7 – 8 June, means the 2025 season will now consist of only four events, beginning with the event at One Raceway (formerly Wakefield Park) on 28 – 29 June.
The cancellation of the event in Perth has been described as a “revision of the category’s strategic direction” and the reduction of the calendar allows the series to “contain transport and travel costs for competitors”.
Three of the four events will now take place in either New South Wales or Victoria where the existing teams are based.
The final two events at The Bend Motorsport Park and the Circuito da Guia in Macau will be held in conjunction with the FIA TCR World Tour.
“The original TCR Australia Series calendar for 2025 included events in New Zealand and Perth, which were chosen in response to teams wanting to race at more high-profile events in front of large audiences,” explained David Sonenscher, Director of TCR Australia Group.
“After working with our teams to deliver both events, it is apparent that the series needs to commence on the east coast of Australia at a circuit such as One Raceway, where the logistical requirements and associated costs of competing are viable for more competitors.
“We have repositioned the 2025 series to a four-round competition within a six-month period, and what we believe is an excellent value offering with the right balance of cost-effective events in New South Wales and Victoria, and premium events alongside the Kumho FIA TCR World Tour at Tailem Bend and the Macau Grand Prix.
“To reiterate, sea freight costs to and from Macau will be covered for TCR Australia competitors.
“The TCR Australia Series for 2025 will start later than intended, but this is a necessary decision as we work to position TCR Australia for success and stability, both this year and long-term.”