F3Cup announces new class structure for 2016

MotorSport Vision Racing (MSVR), the organisers of F3 Cup, are pleased to announce a revised class structure for 2016, which will provide more accessibility to the world of Formula 3 racing.

The new class, to be called F3 Open, will allow drivers to compete in a Formula 3 chassis manufactured after 1st January 2005 (including the latest 2012 models) but with a ‘stock’ normally aspirated 2000cc engine*. As with the current classes, drivers will be required to run control Pirelli tyres and Sunoco fuel, with free ride height. In its inaugural year, the class will not be eligible for the overall title but will have its own bespoke prize package.

Technical details will be released in the coming weeks but the new class is intended to reduce the expense of F3 engine maintenance. F3-specific engines can require costly rebuilds after a number of hours running, which has been a hindrance to drivers looking to move up to this level of single seater racing.

MSVR’s Race Operations Manager David Scott said, “In the five seasons MSVR has administered F3 Cup, a number of drivers have raised the issue of engine maintenance costs. With F3 Cup being the only dedicated Formula 3 category in the UK we feel it is important, now more than ever before, to enable as many people as possible to sample the thrill of high-level single seater racing, whatever their budget. The new F3 Open class will provide an even lower cost option to race these amazing machines on the UK’s best circuits.”

A second change to the class structure will see the older cars of the Cup Class joining the Trophy Class, as the newer 2008-2011 chassis, introduced for the 2015 season, gain popularity. The class structure will thus comprise:

– Cup Class for cars from 2005-2011
– Trophy Class for cars from 1997-2004
– Masters Class for cars from 1981-1996
– F3 Open Class for cars from 2005 onwards running ‘stock’ 2000cc normally aspirated engines* (details to be confirmed)

As in previous years, cars which do not fall into the criteria above will be permitted to run in the Invitation Class at the organisers’ discretion.

A superb 2016 calendar is in the planning and will be available shortly. The UK’s premier circuits will once again feature, including Brands Hatch, Donington Park and Silverstone.

*Engine type and specification at the organisers’ discretion