BRAND NEW SPORT SERIES UNVEILED FOR 2019
Posted on: 04/01/2019The Michelin Clio Cup Series has announced the introduction of a brand-new Sport Series featuring each Clio model from the second-generation RS Clio182 through to the fourth-generation RS Clio 220 ahead of the 2019 season.
Whilst the Race Series retains its status as the pinnacle of the championship, featuring slick-shod third-generation RS Clio 200s, these will be joined by the fourth-generation RS Clio 220 in 2020.
The Road Series also remains unchanged for 2019 and continues in its current guise.
However, the new-for-2019 Sports Series allows the use of Renault Sport-built race cars or modified road-based Clio 182, 197, 200 or 220 models with a maximum of 220bhp in a bid to pit independent engineering against factory-built machines.
Each of the new models permitted in the Sports Series have enjoyed stints in the flagship Renault UK Clio Cup on the British Touring Car Championship support package and will run on Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tyres – as in the Road Series – to form the series’ new third class.
Together, the three-class structure offers competitors from a diverse range of backgrounds the opportunity to benefit from one of the most instructive, cost-effective and race-proven packages on the UK club racing scene.
Several success stories have emerged since the championship was formed in 2013, with alumni including BTCC racer Brett Smith and Renault UK Clio Cup racers James Dorlin, Anton Spires and Ben Colburn.
An official announcement on the 2019 calendar will follow in due course, with a seven-event schedule set to comprise the best circuits in the UK and a maiden overseas trip for the category on the cards.
“I’m absolutely delighted to be able to announce the introduction of a brand-new Sport Series to the Michelin Clio Cup Series in 2019,” commented Championship Promoter Richard Colburn.
“The Clio has such a fantastic racing heritage in the UK. The aim of the new Sport Series is to give the many fans of the car a more open series where modified road cars can race against Renault Sport factory-built race cars all with like minded people, in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere – we really want to become and celebrate the Clio ‘family’.
Broadly speaking, competitors will be able to use genuine Renault Sport race cars but without the need to have all the upgrades along a model’s life or build their own road-based modified cars to pit their engineering skills against the factory-built specials.
“All cars will be limited to an output of 220 bhp to avoid expensive race engines, but gearbox, suspension and brakes modifications will be largely free allowing both track day competitors and those currently competing in other championships to join the Clio Family without extensive modifications.
“The new class will run alongside our existing Race and Road Series, to add another dimension to what is already among the most cost-effective and race-proven categories on the club racing ladder.
“For over half a decade now, the Michelin Clio Cup Series has struck a fantastic balance between catering to those keen to enjoy the experience of driving a ‘proper’ race car – and those looking to forge a career for themselves and rise through the ranks, as many of our alumni have done with the skills learnt in our category.
“We were very encouraged by the response to the series at our Taster Day at Donington Park last month, and interest in joining the Libra class has been high. All things considered, the future is definitely looking bright heading into the New Year, with more news to follow.”
For further technical information:
Richard Colburn richard@westbournemotors.co.uk
For further competitor information:
Pauline Hillon pauline.hillon@gmail.com
For all media and press enquiries:
Damian Meaden damian@touringcars.net
