FIA reveals framework for grassroots tin-top categories

The FIA has revealed new guidelines for grassroots touring car categories that governing bodies and organisers around the world can adopt to ensure safety standards are met when launching championships.

The regulations are not compulsory for new tin-top series to use but they cover areas such as the safety cage, fuel systems, cockpit access, brakes, tyres, suspension and towing.

The guidelines are designed to be tailored towards any particular car being used in competition and can be adapted depending upon the vehicle's performance and size.

“Our role as the FIA, amongst other things, is to share expertise and know-how with our member clubs and therefore raise the standards at grassroots and club-level racing,” explained FIA Touring Car Commission chairman, Alan Gow.

“At the same time, we recognise the fact that grassroots touring car racing must be accessible and adaptable to local conditions. 

“By focusing on safety, these guidelines give the FIA member clubs the freedom to shape their championships while maintaining key safety standards. Even countries with established motorsport, like the UK, should benefit.”

Photo by: Tomasz Kubiak

However, it is believed that the framework will be particularly helpful for local governing bodies or organisers that lack experience of developing a new series.

The Mozambique authorities, for example, are looking to enhance the club racing scene in the African country.

“In Mozambique, where motorsport is still developing, we find ourselves needing to make certain concessions to make it accessible, affordable, and sustainable - safety standards are fundamental for us,” said Miguel Tiago, director at Automobile and Touring Club of Mozambique.

“When individuals see that established safety measures are in place, they are more likely to engage in racing, and this is our main objective.”

The move comes as part of the FIA's bid to boost motorsport participation, especially in areas where it has not historically been commonplace.

It is the aim that series running to these regulations will then funnel drivers into the FIA's new TC Lites concept, which was revealed last year as itself a feeder into TCR racing.