Toyota Racing series announces full calendar for 2023
The Toyota Racing Series will visit five circuits in 2023 and remains hopeful for a field of twenty cars in its first full year since the COVID pandemic.
The Toyota Racing Series on track at Highlands Motorsport Park. (Bruce Jenkins)
Toyota Gazoo Racing New Zealand has announced a five-week run through January and February 2023, with two rounds in the South Island and three in the North Island.
The date and location of the 67th New Zealand Grand Prix is yet to be confirmed - having changed date and location in recent history to maintain continuity while the Toyota Racing Series was suspended.
Organisers are hoping that the series can regain its status as one of the most prestigious winter categories.
"At this time of year almost all young drivers are preparing for their summer seasons, particularly in the Northern Hemisphere," said Castrol TRS Category Manager Nicolas Caillol.
"Castrol TRS has always been recognised for providing a superb five weekend championship at high quality circuits with plenty of testing, practice, qualifying and race mileage and that remains the focus as we return to normal after the restrictions of the pandemic.”
“We are finalising budgets for 2023 but the focus will remain to provide a world class championship that in single seater terms represents the best value for money out there at around 25% less than comparable championships.”
“Super Licence points will continue to be awarded and can be added to a driver's total tally for 2023, making the series even more attractive for those building towards securing a Super Licence, essential for racers wanting to make it to Formula One."
While not held in 2022 due to New Zealand’s border restrictions, Toyota Gazoo Racing New Zealand has recently supplied the FT-60 cars to the W-Series to help reduce transport costs.
"It's a big process to restart the championship but we have plenty of interest and of course securing dates and venues is a critical part of the planning for anyone interested in competing in the 2023 championship.”
2023 Castrol Toyota Racing Series
13-15 January 2023 - Highlands Motorsport Park
20-22 January 2023 - Teretonga Park Raceway
27-29 January 2023 - Manfeild - Circuit Chris Amon
3-5 February 2023 - Hampton Downs International Motorsport Park
10-12 February 2023 - Taupo International Motorsport Park
