Toyota Racing Series receives FIA Formula Regional series status

The Toyota Racing Series will race under the Formula Regional Oceania banner from 2023 onwards.

The new title cements the position of the championship on the FIA pathway to Formula 1, with Formula Regional (FR) series sitting directly below FIA Formula 3.

"The new status of the Castrol Toyota Formula Regional Oceania Championship brings more clarity on where the category stands in the pathway to F1 created by the FIA," said Nicolas Caillol, TOYOTA GAZOO Racing New Zealand Manager.

"Thanks to significant investment from Toyota over the years and the way the championship has evolved this will be the cheapest and most competitive option available at this level for drivers and junior teams."

Competitors will be awarded increased Super Licence points as part of the alignment.

The champion will earn 18 points, up from the previous 10, with points awarded down to ninth place in the standings.

FIA rules are designed to encourage drivers to take part in series during the northern hemisphere winter, eligible for points in two different categories per year.

Oceania is one of seven regions to host FR in 2023, with the series expanding to the Middle East and India.

The Oceania title covers Australia, New Zealand, and the Pacific Islands, according to series promoters, with Caillol touting the TRS as the "major single seater championship in the Oceania region."