CHAMPIONSHIP IN 2009
Exciting changes are in store for the Formula Renault BARC Championship as it becomes a single-class series in 2009. The low-cost single-seater series will be solely for Formula Renault 2.0 cars, which have identical chassis to those used in the BTCC-supporting Formula Renault UK Championship. The successful club-level series is now established as the ideal starting point for a single-seater career, while retaining its club racing values.
The last four seasons have seen a sustained level of interest in the series, which offers the chance to race modern carbon-fibre cars at club level. A mix of young and experienced racers, privateers and established teams and manufacturer support make it currently the strongest single-seater championship in the UK.
Ten drivers who raced in Formula Renault UK in 2007 and 2008 have previously raced in Formula Renault BARC, including new Formula Renault UK Graduate Cup champion Dean Stoneman. Meanwhile, Hywel Lloyd made the step straight into Formula Three, demonstrating the superb opportunities for progression.
Registrations have reached capacity in the last two seasons as the championship has gone from strength to strength since coming under Renault Sport UK’s wing in 2005. In anticipation of an equally large grid the points system is changing to reward the top 20 finishers.
The change reflects the system used in Formula Renault UK, meaning the race winner will receive 32 points with 28 and 25 for second and third. The bonus point for pole position is being dropped, replaced by two points for the fastest lap of the race.
An increase in the per round prize fund sees the top six finishers receiving prize money, from £200 for the race winner to £50 for sixth place. The total prize fund will now be £700 per round.
New for 2009 is the Privateer Cup, open to all competitors who register as driver entries. Privateer drivers have made a major contribution to the development of the championship and the new award is designed to reflect their valued participation. The champion Privateer will receive a trophy and a cheque for £500 at the end of the season.
Commenting on the changes, Championship Manager Simon North said: “Formula Renault BARC is a championship we’re very proud of in the way it has grown since Renault Sport UK became involved in 2005. With the switch to a single class, it’s an ideal time to make improvements such as rewarding a larger percentage of the field with championship points.
“The Privateer Cup is very important because it ensures the series is not only for young drivers looking to start a single-seater career, but also for those who want to experience club racing in state-of-the-art cars. The fact that privateer racers can pit their skills against up and coming youngsters is a fascinating element of the championship.”
For all the latest Formula Renault BARC Championship news visit the official Renault Sport UK website www.renaultsport.co.uk
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