The official circuit season in Russia will open with a historic event: On 1 April, Sochi Autodrom will host the début round of the SMP RCRS Endurance for the first time - a 3-hour endurance race having the status of the Russian Cup.
Two dozen crews in touring cars (from democratic Kia Rio of the S1600 class to powerful Ferrari and Mercedes-AMG of the GT4 and GT3 categories) and specially designed sports prototypes will spend three hours on the formula track.
Constant overtaking, pit stops for driver changes and refuelling, activities for spectators right in the paddock of the now legendary circuit - this is the programme of the SMP RCRS Festival of Speed.
Particular attention is paid to the Russian sports prototype BR03 number 17, which will be driven by SMP Racing programme participants, former Formula 1 drivers Vitaly Petrov and Sergey Sirotkin. Another such car number 11 will be at the disposal of Viktor Shaytar and Alexander Smolyar - winners and runners-up of international races.
Sergey SIROTKIN, RAF Vice President, CEO, SMP Racing driver:
“Being a professional driver, I am always happy to have the opportunity to compete. t is especially pleasant that for the first time the circuit season will open with a long race having the status of the Russian Cup. I will be partnered with another SMP Racing driver known to you - Vitaly Petrov. I am sure that the first race of the SMP RCRS Endurance will be interesting, and I would like to remind you that all athletes need the support of fans.”
Vitaly PETROV, SMP Racing driver:
“Together with Sergey Sirotkin we are driving the Russian sports prototype BR03. This is one of the fastest cars that take part in national competitions. Since the presentation in 2021, we have conducted enough tests, including in competition conditions, to be confident in the cars. However, motorsport is unpredictable, and the entrants include many strong competitors. So, I am inviting you to Sochi Autodrom to immerse yourself in the atmosphere of an SMP RCRS Endurance race!”
SMP RCRS ENDURANCE ROUND 1 TIMETABLE (1 April, Saturday)
10:00 All competing groups Practice
11:30 Group F Qualifying
11:55 GT4 Qualifying
12:10 Touring Qualifying
12:25 Super Production Qualifying
12:40 Touring Light Qualifying
12:55 S1600 Qualifying
13:10 527 Shortcut Qualifying
13:25 Legends 600 Qualifying
13:40 Historic Cup Qualifying
15:45 Race (3 hours + 1 lap - running start)
18:50 Podium ceremony
Fans will be able to make use of the best seats at the stage in the paddock, where a professional presenter will provide commentary for the broadcast and chat with famous drivers.
The activities include a pit lane walk, giveaways, a children’s area with entertainers and a food court.
An adult ticket costs 1,250 roubles and, if purchased the day before or on the day of the competition, 1,500 roubles. Children under 14 are admitted free of charge.
To find out more about SMP RCRS Endurance Round 1 and buy a ticket, please go to the website of the SMP RCRS Festival of Speed.