Australia to host this weekend’s online rally event

Rally drivers and gamers are squaring off in a digital world global battle for supremacy with the running of an Australian themed event this weekend 19-22 June 2020.The five round virtual series gives competitors a level of variety the FIA Asia Pacific Rally Championship is known for. Adding Australia to the calendar brings a new catchment of competitors keen to measure themselves against the current series pacesetters.

While the incredible level of competition has swept aside many known drivers as they take on the simulator realm, the series has allowed many to keep active while international borders remain closed.

Setup to run this weekend is UK based past Formula One and Formula E driver Karun Chandhok. With family links to rallying in his homeland of India, Chandhok decided the challenge was too good an opportunity to miss.

“I’ve been trying to do a bit of practice, but I have to admit, looking at the stage times from other events I am pretty intimidated and miles off the pace.

“Hopefully I can get a few hours of practice in before the weekend. I look forward to taking part.”

The event starts earlier in the weekend and finishes later, giving gamers and drivers more time to compete while they adjust to life away from the steering wheel.

Leg one beings at 6pm Friday 19 June NZST (6am GMT), leg one will run through to just before midnight Saturday 20 June NZST (noon GMT). Leg two starts just after midnight and will run through to 6pm Monday 22 June (6am GMT).

While relatively short in distance, changes in weather and road surface will be similar to what Australian drivers are used to.

Aligned with the FIA #RaceAtHome initiative the Digital APRC series is currently led by Australia’s Luca Giacomin following three round wins. Japan’s Ranofka sits a close second while New Zealand’s Matt Summerfield holds third place. Four other competitors are within arm’s reach of the podium.

Supported by Motorsport Australia, who will be issuing commemorative certificates and additional prize opportunities during the event, the APRC are providing prizemoney for the ‘Best Moment’. Submitted footage from competitors is judged on the https://www.facebook.com/FIA.APRC Facebook page for the most comments.

Entry to the event and series is free with registration and competition from the event link https://dirtrally2.com/clubs/club/321214

Series regulations and details can be found at https://fiaaprc.com/digital-aprc-event-regulations

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