EuroNASCAR will replace Rookie Trophy with the Master Trophy while also raising the minimum age needed to participate in Legend Trophy.
NASCAR Euro Series will be making changes to the Trophy special classifications in 2025. The changes are focused for EuroNASCAR OPEN, designed to usher in a more competitive environment for the junior division.
The Rookie Trophy for debutants has been abolished in favor of the Master Trophy. Master Trophy will allow rookies and gentleman drivers to compete for the classification.
Anyone that received a Grade C driver rating is eligible for the Master Trophy. This is the same requirement that EuroNASCAR imposes for the Challenger Trophy in EuroNASCAR PRO.
“For the 2025 season, there will be some changes made to the Trophy system,” announced EuroNASCAR on 18 December 2024. “The OPEN division will see the introduction of a new special classification: the Master Trophy.”
“Master Trophy will replace Rookie Trophy on the list of special classifications contested in OPEN. The new class is open for all drivers that received a Grade C rating from NASCAR Europe.”
“This means that the Master Trophy will include both debutants and gentleman drivers alike, making it an even more contested classification in a championship that places importance on both young talents and elite amateurs alike.”
EuroNASCAR also made a slight adjustment to the Legend Trophy, where the minimum age limit is raised to 45 years old.
Lastly, a driver can only enter one Trophy at a time starting from 2025. This meant that drivers like Arianna Casoli, who is eligible for both the Legend and Lady Trophy, must choose one Trophy to focus on for the new season.
It’s unknown on which Trophy gets prioritized if a driver does become eligible for two or more Trophies. It’s likely, however, that it’ll be up to the driver’s discretion on what Trophy they want to participate, similar to the points eligibility rule in the United States.
“A major change will also be implemented to the Legend Trophy, one of OPEN division’s signature classifications,” adds EuroNASCAR.
“Starting from 2025, the minimum age will be raised from 40 to 45 years. This change keeps the spirit of rewarding veteran drivers intact while still maintaining the high bar of competition set by previous winners.”
“Additionally, a driver can only register to a maximum of one Trophy in their respective championship. This change will be applied across both PRO and OPEN.”
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