New Group C series starts in 2025

Masters Historic Racing will introduce a new series for the spectacular Group C prototypes of the 1980s next year.

The new “Masters Le Mans 80+” category was developed by Masters boss Frederic Fatien, who took over at the end of last year and had previously spoken to Autosport about his desire to examine possible additions to the historic racing organizer’s portfolio.

The first of these is dedicated to the Group C machines from 1982 to 1993 and the similar IMSA GTP cars that raced in North America during the same period.

Fatien, the driving force behind the Gulf Historic Dubai Grand Prix Revival, which also features Group C cars, said he had consulted with various prototype owners about the plans for the new series. As many of them also run cars in the Masters Racing Legend series for historic Formula 1 machinery from the 1966-1985 era, he believes it will be a good addition.

“The people who love F1 cars also love Group C cars,” said Fatien.

“These cars have great pedigrees and stories to tell – they are incredible.

“You have to have a car like this on the track. I’ve worked on it for a long time because I love racing these cars.”

Fatien said the Masters Le Mans 80+ calendar was still being developed, but “three or four” races were planned in 2025 to gauge interest in the category.

Paolo Barilla / Hitoshi Ogawa / Tiff Needell, Toyota Team TOM’s, Toyota 88 CL – Toyota 38-GTM leads ahead of John Watson / Raul Boesel / Henri Pescarolo, Silk Cut Jaguar, Jaguar XJR-9 LM – Jaguar TWR/Alan Scott and Derek Daly / Kevin Cogan / Larry Perkins, Silk Cut Jaguar, Jaguar XJR-9 LM – Jaguar TWR/Alan Scott.

Photo by: LAT Photographic

“It’s important to focus on where you race with this type of car,” added Fatien, who said initial reactions to the new series had been enthusiastic.

“You need a safe but also comfortable place for people to race in Group C, and you need a wide track so there’s enough space for everyone.”

The Peter Auto organisation already runs events for Group C machines and will visit Mugello, Spa and Paul Ricard this year.

Fatien also said that more categories could be introduced in the coming years as he continues to evaluate the direction of the Masters.

He said: “We have to take into account what the drivers want for their friends and family and step by step we understand what we need to do.”