Ferrari Club Challenge launched

Ferrari has announced what will be one of the most exclusive – and expensive – automotive clubs ever established Australia, and we wish we could be part of it.

Officially launched at Sydney Motorsport Park yesterday, the 2020 Passione Ferrari Club Challenge Australasia will provide just 20 Ferrari owners with undivided access to five of the best racetracks Down Under next year.

There are just two pre-requisites: you own a Ferrari 458 Challenge or 488 Challenge and you’re willing to pay $60,000 plus GST for the five-round package as well as $7500 (+GST) to become an ‘exclusive member’.

For the price of an Alfa Romeo Giulia, members will enjoy trackside hospitality (for drooling friends and family too), an official (and personalized) Ferrari race suit, boots, gloves, helmet, fireproof undergarments and a HANS device.

Membership will afford owners six hours of track time (with personalised tuition from professional driving instructors) at each of the five circuits: Sydney Motorsport Park, Philip Island GP Circuit, The Bend Motorsport Park, Barbagallo Raceway and Hampton Downs Motor Sport Park across the Tasman in New Zealand.

Ferrari says Club Challenge was inspired by the Ferrari Challenge race series and caters for owners who want to develop their skills and experience to eventually go racing, or those who simply wish to experience the thrill of circuit driving. In either case, they’ll be racing against the clock, rather than other competitors.

Ferrari owners won’t have to lift a finger outside the car on the day, with ‘light’ technical support at the ready. However, their vehicles will have to undergo safety checks and maintenance before and after each round.

The only the models accepted will be the 458 Challenge and 488 Challenge, although the Italian car-maker says its official dealer network may be able to help with sourcing new or used Challenge cars for the events.

Club membership excludes flights and/or accommodation for drivers and their families, and the transportation of cars is also at the expense of members but can be arranged by Ferrari.