‘GT Challenge Americas is the CPL of Motorsport’ – President Ali

Guyana is shifting into high gear as President Dr. Irfaan Ali hailed the country’s growing sports tourism sector following the official signing of the GT Challenge de las Americas.

The event, scheduled for July 11-12 at the South Dakota Circuit, is being positioned as a landmark moment for Caribbean motorsport. President Ali likened the upcoming challenge to cricket’s ‘CPL’, emphasising its role as a pillar of Guyana’s “orange economy.”

“I’m very pleased to witness another instalment of us building out our tourism product,” President Ali said. “Sports tourism has been identified as one of the areas that we’ll pursue vigorously.”

Fans can expect a full-factory spectacle featuring GT3-spec machinery from Ferrari, McLaren, Lamborghini, Porsche, Mercedes-Benz and Audi.

While Guyana plays host, the event will carry a distinct regional identity as the President confirmed that the competition would fly the CARICOM flag, with prominent drivers from the Trinidadian racing community set to compete under the Caribbean banner.

Franchise holder Franklyn Boodram explained that Guyana was the clear choice for the third round of the series, citing:

• Geographical location and logistics
• Direct flight availability for international teams
• Exceptional government support for the sport

The Guyana Motor Racing and Sports Club (GMR&SC) is already midway through a massive transformation of the South Dakota facility to meet international standards.

With government backing, the Timehri circuit is receiving significant upgrades, including a revamped pit straight and the installation of FIA-spec curbing and enhanced safety barriers.

“I’d like to thank the President for seeing the vision of motor racing and the upward trend we are seeing in Guyana,” said GMR&SC President Mohamad Shairaz Roshandin.

GT Challenge Director, Eduardo Aguilar, added that the initiative represents a “very good opportunity” to elevate the standard of racing across Caribbean and Central American borders.

The July event is expected to draw a massive influx of drivers and teams from across Latin America for what is being described as a historic moment for the local tracks. (Modified GMR&SC Press Release)