The summer break ends today at Mosport. The GTCRC Trophy returns with the Radical SR3 for the first of four rounds, beginning a run of three trophies before the end of the year.
The last on-track action was at Fort Grozny, where the Copa Corsa brought the first part of the season to a close. Now, the field swaps the small touring car for an open-cockpit prototype, bringing higher cornering speeds and a new challenge behind the wheel. The standings start from zero, and the first question is who will adapt the fastest.
Mosport will begin to provide that answer tonight.
The Canadian circuit demands confidence through its fast corners, attention to elevation changes and precision in sections where the exit only comes into view after the driver has already committed to a line. In the Radical, carrying speed will be crucial: a moment of hesitation can leave the car vulnerable on the next approach, but pushing too hard on entry can also compromise several corners at once.
The racing should take on another dimension once the drivers no longer have a clear track ahead. Following a rival, looking for space and choosing an alternative line will require different reference points from those used in practice. Single-lap pace will be only part of the challenge.
The Trophy format remains unchanged: fixed setups, two races per night and a reversal of the leading finishers on the grid for the second race. A good qualifying session helps secure a place at the front, but drivers will also need to work their way through the field to leave Mosport with a strong all-round result.
That is also what makes each new trophy an opportunity. The familiar names bring experience, but the Radical may reveal new contenders. Whoever quickly finds the balance between confidence and control will have the first opportunity to make their mark on the championship.
After Mosport, the competition will move on to Oschersleben, Hockenheim and Road Atlanta. Today, however, there are no gaps to close and no lead to defend. Two races and the first points are waiting.
The Radical SR3 takes to the track. The GTCRC Trophy is back.