Quote:
Originally Posted by porsche962fan
back in 2005-2006 British GT had races in France, how the heck was this possible and not BTCC
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Akrapovic
BGT still races at Spa.
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Whilst British GT (and F3, for that matter) did have a number of foreign rounds in the mid part of the last decade, this was - in part - due to a falling out with MSV and, as such, access to their circuits wasn't possible. Secondly, British GT/F3 primarily exists for funded drivers to race either for fun or as a stepping stone. As such, they are better placed to race abroad as the main determining factor is competitor demand (and whether they want to pay for it). BTCC is in a different place, as although the bulk of drivers are paying to be part of it, the commercial factors are different - also, is it a simple/cost effective process for live TV from a foreign circuit to be arranged?
Given the size of the BTCC entourage, there aren't many options for a replacent of Rockingham: Silverstone International, Cadwell, Pembrey, Castle Combe, Lydden have inappropriate paddocks (plus accesss for the last three, is an issue); access is probably an issue for Anglesey; Goodwood can only run historics; Knockhill is a long way north; Oulton can only run on four Sundays a year (so a British Superbike or the popular Gold Cup would need to be jetisoned); Silverstone GP is too long; Lake Torrent isn't complete; Kirkistown is too small, has poor access and can't be used on Sundays; and Bishopscourt again has iffy access and noise issues. As such, the alternatives to Thruxton are probably a third Brands meeting, another Silverstone National, Donington, Snetterton or Croft.