The Formula Renault Eurocup will continue in 2019 with the adoption of a regional Formula 3-specification car, despite losing its bid to run the FIA’s new European F3 series.
A meeting of the World Motor Sport Council last Friday decided to hand the rights to run the regional F3 championship for Europe to a bid from the Automobile Club d’Italia (ACI) and its F4 promoter WSK over the submission from Renault.
Renault Sport will press on with its plan to replace its existing Formula Renault car with the the regional F3 car from Tatuus, remaining loyal to the Italian constructor.
This will be paired with a 1.8-litre turbocharged engine derived from the new Megane R.S. unit, delivering between 270-300 bhp.
The series will continue to use the Formula Renault Eurocup name, and?Renault expects a grid of 30 cars, with all its existing teams and some other squads have expressing an interest.
?Since 1971, Formula Renault has always been one of the leading benchmarks in the feeder series,” said Renault Sport Racing commercial director Benoit Nogier.
“With our vast experience and the introduction of this new, fast and affordable car, the most ambitious and talented drivers of their generation can continue their learning process in a relevant and renowned category.
“The Formula Renault Eurocup has the foundations, know-how and strengths needed to complete this transition. We are already eager to see what the future holds.”
The Eurocup will continue with its weekend format of two races, with the grid set by two 30-minute qualifying sessions following two 50-minute collective tests.