TCR International Series: 2015-2017
Despite only running for three seasons, the TCR International Series was one of the most influential touring car championships in recent history. Founded by Marcello Lotti – previously of the WTCC – ahead of the 2015 season, the series showcased the new TCR regulations that were pitched as a cheaper alternative to the WTCC’s TC1 cars.
These regulations were largely based around the SEAT León Cup Racer, but it didn’t take long for more manufacturers to express interest. With the WTCC proving prohibitively expensive for many, TCR International Series offered a high-profile alternative that was significantly more affordable and no less exciting.
The TCR concept rapidly took off around the world, with several national and regional championships launching in quick succession to accompany the International Series. By 2017 it was clear TCR was only going to continue to grow, while the WTCC and its TC1 regulations were stagnating.
In late 2017 it was announced that the TCR International Series and WTCC would merge to create the World Touring Car Cup (WTCR). This established TCR as the undisputed international standard for touring car racing, a position the regulations still hold to this day.