What Is 2022 GT Cup Open Europe

Overview

The 2022 GT Cup Open Europe was a single-make endurance racing series focused on GT3 and GT4-spec vehicles, designed to provide competitive motorsport access for semi-professional and amateur drivers. Organized by Creventic in partnership with SRO Motorsports Group, the series emphasized cost-effective racing and balanced competition across multiple performance classes.

With a calendar spanning six high-profile European circuits, the championship attracted entries from privateer teams across Western and Central Europe. The series promoted close racing through BoP (Balance of Performance) regulations and featured both sprint and endurance-style formats to test driver consistency and team strategy.

• Five rounds were held between May and October 2022, starting at Monza and ending at Paul Ricard, with a total of 12 races conducted.
• Eligible vehicles included FIA-homologated GT3 and GT4 models from manufacturers such as Porsche 911 GT3 R, Ferrari 488 GT3, and Lamborghini Huracán GT3.
• The championship used a Pro-Am and Am class structure to ensure fair competition between driver skill levels, with separate point standings for each.
• Each event included two races: a 45-minute sprint on Saturday and a 90-minute endurance race on Sunday, enhancing strategic depth.
• Creventic administered the series, leveraging its experience from the 24H Series, ensuring professional race direction and live timing for all events.

How It Works

The 2022 GT Cup Open Europe operated under a structured race format combining technical regulations, driver categorization, and points systems to ensure competitive fairness and broad participation.

• Entry Requirements: Teams had to register GT3 or GT4 cars meeting FIA safety and technical standards, with mandatory driver B-licenses or higher. Each entry required at least one amateur-rated driver.
• Balance of Performance (BoP): The SRO regulated weight and power adjustments monthly to equalize performance across different car models, preventing dominance by any single manufacturer.
• Driver Ratings: Drivers were classified as Pro, Silver, or Am by the FIA, determining team composition rules and class eligibility to maintain competitive balance.
• Race Format: Each round included practice, qualifying, and two races. Qualifying determined grid order, with the second race using a reversed top-10 from Race 1 results.
• Scoring System: Points were awarded from 1st (25 pts) to 10th (1 pt), with additional points for pole position and fastest lap to incentivize performance.
• Technical Inspections: Post-race scrutineering ensured compliance with regulations, with penalties issued for technical infringements or unsportsmanlike conduct.

Comparison at a Glance

The following table compares the 2022 GT Cup Open Europe with similar motorsport series in terms of structure, vehicle eligibility, and audience reach.

While the GT Cup Open Europe shared organizational ties with the SRO and Creventic’s 24H Series, it distinguished itself with lower entry costs and a streamlined calendar. Its focus on amateur drivers and shorter race formats made it accessible compared to elite series like the GT World Challenge, while still offering professional race support and live streaming.

Why It Matters

The 2022 GT Cup Open Europe played a key role in expanding access to GT racing for drivers outside factory teams, fostering talent development and regional motorsport growth. By aligning with SRO standards, it provided a credible stepping stone for drivers aiming for higher-tier championships.

• The series enabled drivers from 15 countries to compete internationally, increasing diversity and regional representation in GT racing.
• Low-cost entries and shared logistics reduced barriers, making professional motorsport more inclusive for privateer teams.
• Live streaming of all races on YouTube and SRO TV expanded audience reach, attracting over 120,000 cumulative views per event.
• Participation helped drivers earn FIA points toward higher license grades, supporting career progression in motorsport.
• Teams used the series to test setups and drivers ahead of endurance classics like the 24 Hours of Nürburgring.
• The championship strengthened ties between Creventic and SRO, promoting unified regulations across European endurance racing.

Overall, the 2022 GT Cup Open Europe served as a vital platform for driver development and competitive GT racing, balancing professionalism with accessibility in a growing motorsport landscape.