As usual there is a lot to work out with respect to this but I have been approached by a big ($$) company who is interested in sponsoring an "amateur" level endurance series for Sports Prototypes only.
Concept still has a lot of issues to resolve but in general the direction is as follows:
1.) 4-6 race series to start with. More later on.
2.) Probably more East coast based up front-with moving to national series if things work out.
3.) Initial races of 2-3 hours length-2 per weekend with testing and qualifying. Move towards some longer races-idea is to go to 6 to 10/12 hour races-one per weekend. Maybe longer if reasonable to do.
4.) At start of series-depending on sanctioning body- races may be added onto existing race weekend that the sanctioning body already is running. Endurance race would be in evening-after "normal" racing over.
5.) In any event-night racing is going to be a part of concept. So need lights.
6.) Mandatory pit stops every x minutes (TBD) So nobody stuffs a 40 gallon fuel cell in their car.
7.) Minimum pit stop time of x minutes. (TBD) No fueling during driver change. Driver out-then refuel car-then install new driver. Reduces fire danger. Also no need for quick refuel systems.
8.) 2,3 or 4 drivers allowed.
9.) Open to following car types: a.) new LMP3 class b.) SCCA P1, c.) SCCA P2 d.) Radical cars
10.) No "pro" drivers allowed.
11.) Success ballast to keep one car from dominating.
12.) No or very limited mods to cars from current "other series" rule sets. Want cars to be able to run this series one weekend and then another series (Ie-SCCA) the next weekend with minimal or no vehicle alterations.
13.) Spec tire. "Harder, long lasting tire"
What I would like is some feedback from this audience over this idea. Is it of any interest to all? What rules, organization, race types/lengths/locations, car types would you all want. Anything elase to add? Who to sanction? Costs?
No way to know if this will actually happen. All I can say is the sponsor is pretty serious about this. To the point they want to look at a US and European Series, want it sooner than later and have even made noise about (gasp!) prize money.
I have talked to a couple of race teams that currently lease out/run cars in IMSA Lites, Anderson F2000 series, etc and they have all said they think a pretty good idea. For them the advantage is they can support one car but have 2-4 drivers renting the car. Cuts the support staff (mechanics) needed-the fact the races are longer is not an issue as the team/mechanics are at the track anyway. Also allows drivers to race without having to invest 100% of car cost. All can be shared. And for private individuals who current race their cars they can have buddies race with them and share costs over 2-4 drivers.
Personally I really love Prototype Sports Cars and Endurance racing. Being able to take my Norma and run some long races with buddies would be a blast.