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Writer's pictureNigel Redwood

The Sports Prototype Cup Returns to Donington GP with Exciting Line-up

This weekend, the Sports Prototype Cup heads to Donington Park GP circuit, joining the grid of the Zeo Prototype Series for two thrilling 30-minute sprint races.


Racing Highlights

Revolution is excited to welcome back long-time customer and fan, Olympian and World Champion Sir Chris Hoy. Hoy will be racing his newly purchased Revolution 500SC. After retiring from professional cycling in 2013, Sir Chris Hoy, renowned for his six Olympic gold medals and eleven World Championship titles, transitioned into motor racing.


He began his motorsport career in the British GT Championship, driving for Nissan GT Academy Team RJN. In 2015, he competed in the European Le Mans Series (ELMS) with Team LNT, winning the LMP3 championship. Hoy made his debut at the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 2016, finishing 12th in the LMP2 category. He first began his association with Revolution Race Cars in 2020, famously quoted as saying, “The Revolution is the closest car I’ve driven to a Le Mans Prototype car!”


The Factory is also entering the 500 EVO to continue its successful test and development program. James Abbott and Nigel Redwood will be on testing duty. This is the final test race for the EVO, with the first customer orders being shipped soon after.


Race Schedule

The sprint weekend features qualifying and both races on Saturday, promising a hectic and fun day. The timetable is as follows:


Friday, June 21st

  • 9:35 AM: Free Practice 1 (30 mins)

  • 11:20 AM: Free Practice 2 (30 mins)

  • 2:05 PM: Free Practice 3 (30 mins)

  • 3:50 PM: Free Practice 4 (30 mins)


Saturday, June 22nd

  • 9:25 AM: Qualifying (20 mins)

  • 2:00 PM: Race 1 (30 mins)

  • 6:30 PM: Race 2 (30 mins)


About Donington GP

Donington Park is situated near Castle Donington in Leicestershire, England.

History:

  • Origins: Established in 1931, Donington Park is one of the oldest racing circuits in the UK. Initially designed for motorcycle racing, it was later adapted for cars.

  • World War II: The circuit was requisitioned by the military and used as a vehicle depot.

  • Revival: In the 1970s, Tom Wheatcroft bought and restored the circuit, reopening it for racing in 1977.


Circuit Layouts:

  • Grand Prix Circuit: The GP circuit is 4.020 km (2.492 miles) long, featuring a mix of fast straights and technical corners.

  • National Circuit: A shorter version, measuring 3.149 km (1.957 miles), excluding the Melbourne Hairpin and Goddards sections.


Famous Sections:

  • Craner Curves: Fast, downhill curves that are thrilling for both drivers and spectators.

  • Old Hairpin: A fast right-hand corner.

  • Starkey’s Straight: One of the fastest sections of the track.

  • Melbourne Hairpin: A sharp hairpin requiring heavy braking, offering overtaking opportunities.

  • Goddards: The final complex leading onto the start-finish straight.


Facilities: Donington Park boasts modern facilities, including:

  • Paddock: Well-equipped with garages and amenities for teams.

  • Spectator Areas: Multiple grandstands and general admission areas with excellent views.

  • Museum: The Donington Grand Prix Collection was once housed here, showcasing a large collection of racing cars and memorabilia (note: the museum is currently closed).


Next Up for the Sports Prototype Cup:

The Cup returns to Zandvoort on September 13-15, featuring the popular three-race format from the opening rounds. European Cup drivers are also invited to join the Watkins Glen joint Sports Prototype Cup/Revolution North America event, with attractive race hire packages available.


Interesting in drive at Zandvoort, then email nigel@revolutionracecars.com for further information.



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