TCR AUSTRALIA OPENS TYRE TENDER

TCR Australia opens control tyre supplier tender – Photo: Supplied

Australian Racing Group (ARG) the promoter group behind TCR’s introduction to Australia is seeking formal tenders for its control tyre supplier as the new series prepares to launch in 2019.

TCR Australia has received great interest from all corners of the motorsport, motoring and commercial worlds since its announcement two weeks ago.

The tyre industry has not been exempt from this, with an overwhelming demand to be the inaugural supplier for the world touring car formula.

The interest has been so positive that, to be fair and transparent, ARG has elected to seek formal tenders for the supply of the control tyres for the 2019 season.

“The interest in TCR Australia has been quite high and very encouraging from a range of different markets – from driver and team enquiry to events and potential category supporters,” said Matt Braid, Australian Racing Group’s Director.

“This has been no different in the tyre world. As soon as we announced, we had no less than six companies approach us with their interest in the global touring car class.

“We’ve decided to go to tender to get a complete picture from the respective brands to see what really is on offer and see what styles of partnership we can form in our first year and beyond.

“Of course, the commercial side of the deal will be paramount. We want the best outcome for all of the competitors and teams, but we are also very interested in the tyre and its specifications. A whole range of factors will come into play for this.

“I’m really excited to assess the interested supplier’s tenders and look forward to building a strong, lasting partnership.”

The control TCR wheels are 18” (diameter), and with almost all suppliers currently stocking tyres that meet the criteria, competition for the tender is expected to be fierce.

On a global front, TCR Series around the world use different brands of tyres, depending on the regions and markets. As an example, the World TCR Series in Portugal and Russia have deals with Yokohama, while TCR Germany use Hankook and TCR Asia and Italy race on Michelins.

Tender opportunities close on August 31, 2018.

For more of the latest national motorsport news, pick up the latest issue of Auto Action, on sale now. Also make sure you follow us on social media Facebook, Twitter, Instagram or our weekly email newsletter for all the latest updates between issues.