FISC EuroTour

The foundation FISC EuroTour was founded in 1994 with the explicit purpose of preserving historic and classic motorcars, and more specifically the European marques and types, through a programme of promotion by organizing motor races in Western Europe on historic Grand Prix circuits, representing the ambiance of the 50’s, 60’s and 70’s.

It was felt that such a series would encourage the preservation, restoration and rebuilding of precious cars, which could be seen racing in their original state and environment.

For its financing the foundation is totally dependent on membership fees and donations.

History

In 1994, a pilot race was organized as part of the first British Race Festival, often referred to as the British ‘Rain’ Festival, at the circuit of Zandvoort. Because of the dreadful weather circumstances, this race only attracted 12 drivers in their Austin Healey Sprites and MG Midgets.

Despite a very poor showing, it was decided to organize a complete series of six events for the above cars in 1995. Even in its first year, quality circuits such as Spa-Francorchamps (Belgium), Zandvoort (The Netherlands), Nürburgring GP (Germany), Brands Hatch (United Kingdom) and Goodyear (Luxembourg) were on the race calendar. Starting grids rapidly developed into 30 car grids on average, containing cars as beautiful as the Sebring Sprite, Lenham Sprite, Ashley Sprite, Jakobs Midget, Speedwell Sprite and of course the more common Frogeye, the Austin Healey Sprite Mk II - IV and the MG Midget Mk I - III.

BMC ‘A’ Series

With a recession in 2003, grid numbers deteriorated. This economic climate prompted the foundation to expand the original concept to that of a new and unique series allowing all types of BMC ‘A’ series engined cars to take part from 2006 onwards. The regulations are designed to achieve a perfect match between competitors, as all cars are of similar weight and engine capacity. The grids are a showcase of the British Motor industry at its peak, one of the reasons why the series was granted use of the ‘BMC rosette’ from British Motor Heritage Ltd.

Legendary Circuits Series

In 2006, a pilot race for all types of European historic sports & saloon cars was run at the old Nordschleife circuit, located in the very centre of the Eifel Mountains in Germany. The success of the race provided an opportunity to expand on the concept, so offering a wider range of historic motor racing enthusiasts the possibility to enjoy the most legendary circuits throughout Europe. A wide variety of cars is eligible, thus meeting the original foundation’s goals to the full.

References

* [http://www.fisc-europe.org FISC EuroTour Home Page]