FIA announces new TC Lite category

The FIA has announced the introduction of a new set of technical regulations for an accessible, entry-level touring car class that is set to launch in 2025.

TC Lite will sit below TCR and will comprise of two subclasses – TCL4 and TCL5 – that are based around the existing Rally4 and Rally5 regulations, and which will allow teams and drivers to use the same car for rally and circuit competition.

Minimal adaptations will be required to use a car homologated for rally competition in circuit racing, such as the removal of the passenger seat and spare wheel, and the addition of racing nets.

TCL5 will mark the entry level class with a power-to-weight ratio of around 6.0kg/bhp, while TCL4 cars will offer a step up in terms of performance, with approximately 5.1kg/bhp.

Cars currently featuring in the Rally4 and Rally5 rulesets include the Ford Fiesta, Peugeot 208, Renault Clio and Skoda Fabia, with the Lancia Ypsilon being announced earlier this year.

Rally5 kit-cars will also be able to compete in TCL5 at national level with local homologation.

“Introducing a pyramid structure to touring car racing is something that has been our aim for quite a while,” FIA Touring Car Commission President Alan Gow said. “TCR is a proven customer racing platform that works well both in national-level series and in world-level touring car racing. However, we have been missing an accessible entry-level platform.

“The introduction of the TC Lite ruleset fills that gap. Having the very same cars in rallying and touring car racing has plenty of benefits – it is cost-effective, sustainable, provides the competitors with a level playing field and creates opportunities for more available seat time.

“At the same time, the manufacturers and their customer racing programmes will be able to grow their business as the market of these cars will naturally broaden.”