A new one-make series has today (April 24) launched aimed towards mature budding race drivers with a lower-age restriction of 50 years, titled Series Elite.

Running under the British Automobile Racing Club umbrella, the championship will see drivers compete in identical Jaguar F-TYPE GT4 machines – starting at Brands Hatch in late October before embarking on a full 12-race season in 2019.

Targeting high net worth individuals and offering a turnkey racing opportunity, Series Elite is designed to appeal to both amateurs and more experienced racers.

Drivers will be provided with all the relevant training, testing and race experience needed to compete in the new series, with their cars stored and prepared at a centralised team facility.

Series Director, Graeme Glew, said: “Currently there is no series that caters specifically for older drivers who want to compete at a high level with like-minded racers. We’re filling this gap with Series Elite supported by Jaguar’s race car expertise.

“Our competitors will own their own cars, but all the other aspects of going racing – preparing the cars, transporting them, arranging hospitality, travel and accommodation – will be arranged for them. With time at a premium it will allow drivers to fulfil their desire to go racing with minimal effort and fit into their busy lifestyle.

“Our offering will also extend off-track too, with high-class hospitality and exclusive lifestyle events outside of race weekends to expand the race experience into new areas, such as ice-driving.”

Greg Clark, Director Vehicle Personalisation at Jaguar Land Rover adds, “The Jaguar F-TYPE GT4 was developed last year for Invictus Games Racing and following this we were approached to develop the car for Series Elite.

“The concept and series profile is an obvious fit for Jaguar and it is an appropriate next step for us to expand production of the GT4 car, with a controlled environment and build schedule for this year.

“We are looking forward to seeing the first grid of cars at Brands Hatch before the full season with a 20-car field in 2019.”

The series’ inaugural weekend takes place at Brands Hatch on October 27/28 as part of a bumper two days of BARC racing. Series Elite is set to visit Silverstone, Donington Park, Rockingham, Brands Hatch and a yet to be decided international venue next year.

For more information, head to www.serieselite.com