Expanding globally for the first time since the pandemic, NASCAR identified Brazil as the place to launch its next international series and first in South America. Rather than starting a new property from scratch, NASCAR has struck a deal to re-badge a pre-existing series in South America’s most populous country called GT Sprint Race, which was founded in 2012, has traditionally raced on road courses and will now be known as the NASCAR Brazil Sprint Race. The 18-race series joins other ones that America’s leading stock car property has launched in Canada, Mexico and Europe. This is part of NASCAR’s strategy to build its brand globally to both attract new talent and create new fans of its brand around the world.
Exact terms are not being released, but NASCAR did not acquire the GT Sprint Race and it’s more of a partnership with a re-branding, according to NASCAR VP/International Business Chad Seigler. The series was founded by former Brazilian stock car driver Thiago Marques, and another person that will be involved is Carlos Col, an experienced Brazilian racing executive who will serve as general partner. Competition under the new name will start in March with the 2023 season, which will mostly mirror the 2022 season in terms of schedule.
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