MINI sets Challenge for 2008

MINI looks set to extend its internationally-acclaimed one-make MINI Challenge race series to Australia in 2008.

The strictly-controlled production-based one-make series is currently contested in the New Zealand, United Kingdom, Germany and a number of other European nations. It’s understood that MINI Australia is currently in the final stages of securing support to bring the series Down Under in time for 2008.

MINI Australia boss, Justin Hocevar told the Carsales Network: "Bringing MINI Challenge to Australia is very high on our agenda and we’re feverishly working to finalise our business case to do so."

"We’re currently in discussions with a partner organisation and we’re hopeful of being able to confirm the debut of the series in time for the 2008 motorsport season," Hocevar said.

While Hocevar would not confirm details, it is believed MINI is negotiating to run the Challenge Series alongside the Carrera Cup. This would potentially see the hot hatches on the V8 Supercar undercard -- a coup for the new series.

Hocevar said the brand would like to see a seven or eight round series contested. Most rounds would count towards the championship proper, he said, but some non-championship rounds could be held to support "internationally significant motorsport events."

The European championships will switch to the new R56 based turbocharged Cooper S models in 2008 -- the switch is one of the catalysts behind the arrival of the series Down Under.

"We’ve seen the new MINI Challenge racecar prototypes and we’re very excited," Hocevar said. "They feature significant aero packages and strictly controlled suspension and engine specs. They’re proper mini touring cars and are prepared alongside the [BMW] M3 GTRs that race in European touring car events."

According to the MINI Australia boss, MINI Challenge is the most popular one-make series in Germany -- attracting more than double the coverage of the next best formula (Ed: Carrera Cup).

"We believe that the series can not only provide great racing and entertainment, but it will be a genuine stepping stone for developing driver talent," Hocevar said.

"We believe that the cost to compete will be affordable and therefore the series should open up true national competition to a whole new tier of drivers, teams and sponsors."

MINI is encouraging teams and drivers to log their expressions of interest regarding the MINI Challenge. For more information, contact MINI Australia, tel (03) 9264 4186.

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