Federal Signs as Nippon Challenge Supplier

The Nippon Challenge, described as “the nation’s premier racing series for Japanese cars”, will roll out this year with Federal’s new motorsports extreme tyre, FZ-201 semi-slick, as one of the spec tyres. The Taiwanese tyre brand will also be the title sponsor for all of the 14 races over seven weekends between April and October.

Started in the 2008 season, Federal says the Nippon Challenge has seen a growing following from spectators and drivers alike as “the only UK multi-marque race series for Japanese Performance Cars run by the only MSA affiliated club dedicated to Japanese Car Racing”. The classes encompass GT500, GT300, GT250, GT200, GT150 and Super GT for more modified vehicles. Cars that have competed to date include Mazda RX7 / MX5, Nissan 200SX / 350Z, Honda Integra / Civic / CRX / Accord, Subaru Impreza, Mitsubishi EVO / FTO, Toyota MR2.

Having launched at Silverstone back in March, Federal says the Nippon Challenge is shaping up to be very competitive with “a group of eager drivers to take up the challenge”. Two unique groups within the Challenge – MR2 Turbo and Junior GT division – will run exclusively on Federal’s 595RS-R sport competition tyre, which the company notes is available to club racers through its UK tyre distributors. 

Steve Vince, co-ordinator of the Nippon Challenge states: “Federal has always been seriously involved in motor sport activities in a big way. The new supply deal demonstrates their willingness to support club racers and the Nippon Challenge series in the UK.”

The second round of Nippon Challenge will be held on 30 May at Snetterton, giving enthusiasts an opportunity to see the cars, meet competitors and get a taste of what professional motorsports entails. The company concludes: “We look forward to seeing the very best of Britain’s most talented racers chasing top honours in the Federal Tyres Nippon Challenge race series.”