New super special for Argentina
Major changes to Rally Argentina route
New car and points bonus for DMACK trophy
The Drive DMACK Fiesta Trophy will return in 2015 with a new car and a revamped points system that gives competitors the chance to score twice on the final round.
Run for the first time last year, the series, driven by tyre manufacturer DMACK and preparation firm M-Sport, is aimed at aspiring rally drivers from around the world who want to prove themselves on the world stage. Drivers will fight for the prize of a full seven-round season in WRC 2 in 2016.
This year’s trophy will run on the same five WRC events as 2014, starting with the gravel rounds in Portugal, Poland and Finland, then the asphalt of Germany and finishing with a mixed-surface event in Spain. However, the final showdown at Rally de Espana will run as two separate rounds with two sets of points on offer - most likely at the end of the asphalt and tarmac sections. The best five scores from six rounds will count towards the trophy and points will also be awarded for stage victories on all events.
Competitors will drive identical 2015-spec Ford Fiesta R2 cars, prepared and run by M-Sport and equipped with the latest DMACK tyres. Compared to the 2014 model, the new car, unveiled at this week's Autosport show, has upgrades to the suspension, brake and transmission systems and, most significantly, a new power unit in Ford’s 1.0 litre turbocharged Ecoboost engine.
Trophy organisers say the price of £115,000 makes it the most affordable way for drivers to showcase their talent. Applications are now being accepted with full details and application forms available at www.drivedmack.com. It’s anticipated that around 16 places will be available and the initial selection of competitors will take place on 27 February, however, applications will continue to be accepted until 17 April.
Dick Cormack, DMACK motorsport director, said: “The format of the Trophy has proven both competitive and popular, and the changes introduced for this year will ensure it remains the most affordable way to compete in the WRC. DMACK has always focused on stimulating cost-effective competition by providing an affordable range of performance motorsport tyres and we’ve seen some great overall results during 2014. The huge prize and low-cost platform will undoubtedly result in even more interest this year.”
