Liqui Moly changes from World Touring Car Championship to new TC3 Touring Car Series

After seven years, Liqui Moly is terminating its engagement in the World Touring Car Championship (WTCC). In its place, the German motor oil and additive experts will continue their sponsoring activities with Volkswagen at the new TC3 International Series next year. “Here we are returning to our roots: a racing series consisting exclusively of private drivers, with equal chances for all teams,” said Peter Bauman, marketing manager at Liqui Moly.

Liqui Moly has supported the Engstler Team in its endeavors for the Touring Car Championship since 2008. This year, Franz Engstler was successful in securing his claim for the world championship title for private drivers ahead of time. However, this highlight also marked the end of the commitment. The factory teams participating in the WTCC have become so dominant that the dwindling number of private drivers no longer has a chance. “That is why we are no longer supporting participation in the WTCC,” continued Baumann. “But we are not through with racing.”

In 2015, Liqui Moly will be at the starting line at the newly christened TC3 International Series. The Captain of this new racing series is Marcello Lotti, who also founded the WTCC. The TC3 International Series is a racing series reserved for private drivers exclusively. “We want to compete in a series, where the ability of the drivers stands as the main factor,” stated Baumann.

During the next few months, the Liqui Moly Engstler team will trade its BMW TC2 for three Golf GTI’s. “For us, as a German brand, it is important to have a German automobile manufacturer in the passenger seat,” explained Baumann. The Liqui Moly Engstler team is one of the eight teams founding the new racing series. Three races will be held together with Formula 1 races.

Team chief Franz Engstler is also excited about the TC3. “It is something very special to be one of the founding teams in a completely new racing series. The performance level is so high, the race is sure to be unbelievably exciting. It is fantastic that our long-term partner Liqui Moly is supporting us in this new adventure.”