The new Promoters Cup got off to an excellent start in Austria last weekend as the protagonists for the division engaged in some fascinating racing. Find out what the drivers thought of it here...
The new Promoters Cup got off to an excellent start in Austria last weekend as the protagonists for the division engaged in some fascinating racing.
The initiative, which was announced pre-season, is designed to add incentive and recognition for drivers without a record for scoring wins and podiums.
The success of the Promoters Cup is anticipated to see increased grids in the future, as drivers now have the opportunity to fight for appearances on the podium, take home trophies and spray champagne in celebration.
“We were delighted with the way that the Promoters Cup was received at its first appearance last weekend,” said ETRA director, Rolf Werner.
“We saw some great battles, especially in race three when Andre Kursim started so well, Alen Draganovic came through to take an emotional win. There was also an action packed battle between Terry Gibbon, Erwin Kleinnagelvoort and Eduardo Rodrigues.
“It was fitting that every one of the Chrome categorized drivers appeared on the podium,” continued Werner. “This is exactly what we had in mind when we devised the Promoters Cup. We strongly believe now that other race by entrants will be attracted to entering in to the FIA ETRC to come and be rewarded for their efforts and increase their visibility on and off the track.”
Jose Rodrigues, Promoters Cup victor in the first three races, showed amazing pace and skill in race two on Saturday when he made the most of his breakaway from second place on the reverse grid to take the overall win.
After Markus Altenstrasser delayed the chasing pack with some skillful defensive driving, Rodrigues was able to spring clear and take a well-deserved overall victory. In so doing, he became the first Chrome categorized driver to win a race outright.
What did the Drivers think about the new Promoters Cup? We asked them after the weekend…
Terry Gibbon – T-Sport MAN
“It is my first podium (in FIA ETRC), which is quite fantastic! The Promoters-Cup is really good for the teams and the drivers – now we really have something to race for.”
Erwin Kleinnagelvoort – EK Truck Race Scania
“The Promoters-Cup is very nice for me, because I’m one of the slower drivers but now I also have the chance to be on the podium - I really enjoy it! The champagne goes to the family because they are working a lot on the truck, so I can concentrate on racing!”
Eduardo Rodrigues – Reboconorte MAN
“The Promoters-Cup is a very good invention in my opinion. I can also be on the podium now and enjoy the moment in front of the crowds.”
Jose Rodrigues – Reboconorte MAN
“For the smaller teams like my father and also me it is a very good idea! For example my father doesn’t win anything at those races, but now he has the chance to fight for a podium and that’s very motivating. Also our sponsors in Portugal are happy because they can promote our podium spots now”
Andre Kursim – Tankpool24 Racing Mercedes-Benz
“I am happy to be racing for and appearing on the podium for sure. It is nice. We have the chance to celebrate a little and race for a prize, so I see this as a nice venture to be part of.”
Additional reporting by Andreas Hartmann