A newly formed consortium of drag racing venues and organizers will become the first ever promoter of the FIA European Drag Racing Championship, providing a stable foundation for the series’ growth and expansion.
Drag Racing Europe AB (DRE) was founded by representatives of Santa Pod Raceway, a venue hosting championship events, and Speed Group AB, a Scandinavian drag racing promoter/organizer.
The agreement between the FIA and the DRE comes into effect from this season and lasts for three years, with the short-term aim being to stabilise the championship, providing the conditions necessary for its growth and making it financially and environmentally sustainable.
The current class structure used by the FIA EDRC will remain unchanged, with the Top Fuel, Top Methanol, Pro Modified and Pro Stock classes retained, but one of the long-term goals is to create a junior class.
With a promoter appointed, media coverage of the FIA EDRC is expected to increase, with a dedicated website, social media and streaming channels set to be launched.
A Championship Committee, comprising representatives of the FIA and promoters, will be established to provide a forum for discussion on the future strategic development of the sport of drag racing, which will report to the FIA Drag Racing Commission.
Lars Peterson, FIA Drag Racing Commission ChairmanSaid: “I am really pleased with the appointment of FIA EDRC as Promoter. This will increase professionalism in all aspects of the Championship and ensure a certain uniform standard is applied across the event. There are many interesting stories to tell within the FIA EDRC, such as the significant success of female competitors over the years, and now with proper promotion in place, people will finally be able to hear these stories.”
Michael Gullqvist, CEO of DRESaid: “We are delighted that we have finally reached an agreement, which will allow us to further develop the FIA EDRC. Our aim is to improve the championship and promote it to a higher level, which is beneficial for both competitors and fans.”
Keith Bartlett, President Drag Racing Europe fatherSaid: “With this new agreement for the promotional and commercial rights for the FIA European Drag Racing Championship, we intend to develop the Championship in all areas, including improving the structure of the Championship rounds, assisting track promoters in marketing and promoting the Championship and, more importantly, exploring commercial and partnership opportunities.”
