TCR Australia delays opening round .. AGAIN!

TCR Australia has now joined the long list of categories that want to expand, but don’t want to take advantage of opportunities available to them!

TCR Australia was supposed to be racing on the Supercars support bill in Perth but after previously cancelling their appearance at the Taupō Motorsport Park round of the Supercars they’ve now gone down the path of staying in their home territory and will focus on New South Wales and Victoria events, with sideshows as part of the World TCR events in Adelaide and Macau.

David Sonenscher, Director – TCR Australia Group had this to say at the announcement of the latest opening round delay.

“The original TCR Australia Series calendar for 2025 included events in New Zealand and Perth, which were chosen in response to teams wanting to race at more high-profile events in front of large audiences. After working with our teams to deliver both events, it is apparent that the series needs to commence on the east coast of Australia at a circuit such as One Raceway, where the logistical requirements and associated costs of competing are viable for more competitors.

“We have repositioned the 2025 series to a four-round competition within a six-month period, and what we believe is an excellent value offering with the right balance of cost-effective events in New South Wales and Victoria, and premium events alongside the Kumho FIA TCR World Tour at Tailem Bend and the Macau Grand Prix. To reiterate, sea freight costs to and from Macau will be covered for TCR Australia competitors.

“The TCR Australia Series for 2025 will start later than intended, but this is a necessary decision as we work to position TCR Australia for success and stability, both this year and long-term.”

Lets just focus on something here, the Macau costs are going to be covered for TCR Australia competitors (now it doesn’t say by whom, but assuming TCR Australia?) which seems crazy!

Why not wear the costs to come promote the category WITHIN Australia and build towards getting a stable grid with competitors throughout the country and these cars racing at state events.

It all seems contradictory to the final line in David Sonenscher’s statement about wanting to position TCR Australia for success and stability.