Definition:
The 2013 FIA GT Series refers to the motorsport championship season sanctioned by the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) for grand tourer (GT) racing cars, organized under the FIA GT Series framework in the year 2013.
Overview:
The 2013 FIA GT Series was a global sports car racing series that featured GT3-specification vehicles competing in multiple rounds across Europe and potentially other international circuits. The series was designed to promote GT3-class racing, providing a platform for professional and amateur drivers. It formed part of the broader FIA-sanctioned motorsport calendar and served as a precursor or companion to other FIA GT competitions.
In 2013, the FIA GT Series operated alongside or in transition with the FIA GT1 World Championship, which had concluded after the 2012 season. The restructuring aimed to shift focus from GT1-class vehicles to the more accessible and cost-effective GT3 technical regulations. This transition allowed a broader range of manufacturers and private teams to participate.
Etymology/Origin:
The term "FIA GT Series" originates from "Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile" (FIA), the world governing body for motorsport, and "GT," an abbreviation for "Grand Touring" or "Gran Turismo," denoting production-based high-performance sports cars modified for racing. The series was formally established in the early 2010s, with the 2013 season being part of its development phase. It was organized by the SRO Motorsports Group under FIA supervision.
Characteristics:
- Vehicle Class: Primarily GT3-specification cars, adhering to technical regulations set by the FIA.
- Format: Endurance and sprint races, often featuring two-driver teams.
- Tracks: Events held at major European circuits such as Silverstone, SPA-Francorchamps, Paul Ricard, and others.
- Regulations: Compliance with FIA safety, technical, and sporting codes, including Balance of Performance (BoP) adjustments.
- Participants: Included factory-backed teams and privateer entries from manufacturers such as Audi, Mercedes-Benz, Ferrari, and Lamborghini.
Related Topics:
- FIA GT1 World Championship
- Blancpain Endurance Series
- SRO Motorsports Group
- GT3 racing regulations
- FIA World Endurance Championship
- 24 Hours of Spa
Note: The FIA GT Series in 2013 was later rebranded and integrated into what would become the Blancpain GT Series (now known as the GT World Challenge), indicating its evolution into a more commercially driven format under SRO management.