The two cups will be totally separate from the APRC award, the same benefits will apply to the Cup entrants including collective shipping and coordination, inclusion in the global TV coverage, seeding at the head of the field, primary positions at service parks – plus the opportunity to compete in international events with the associated exposure and experience.
A summary of the new regulations are as follows: • A competitor can win the 2008 APRC and either the ASIA or PACIFIC Cup.• Introduction of Asia Cup and Pacific Cup – minimum 3 events each region.• Pacific Cup – nominate 3 events (of 3) prior to close of entries for first event.• Asia Cup – nominate 3 events (of 4) prior to close of entries for first event contested.• Teams can register for the full APRC and either the Asia or Pacific Cups – but not both Cups.• APRC - Nominate 6 events prior to close entries of first event to be contested.• APRC – to qualify for points and awards at least 5 of the nominated 6 events must be contested.• Penalty for any missed APRC events is the full entry fee – to be paid to event organizers.• Points may only be scored at nominated events.• 45 min service is now flexi service at each event. A new tyre rule has been introduced for all regional rally championships in 2008, specifying that all tyres used in competition must be commercially available.
Further interpretation of the 2008 APRC Regulations reveals that it is possible to enter the full APRC and contest either of the Asia or Pacific cups - but not both. The exact wording is found in regulation 1.4.1 "Each competitor (entrant), driver and co-driver must register with the FIA to be eligible for any Asia Cup or Pacific Cup awards and the registration may be for either Cup but not both. Registration for either Cup together with an APRC registration is permitted". Further explanation can be found in regulations 1.4.3 and 1.4.4.The introduction of the Cups provides an opportunity for those drivers and teams who may not have the resources to complete the full 6 APRC rounds, but could successfully contest 3 rounds, including their home event.
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2008 Asia & Pacific Cups
