Author: Jack Miller
Exciting Developments and Releases in Store for Gran Turismo Fans
The Gran Turismo World Series 2023 is set to launch on Saturday, May 13, with the highly anticipated Round 1 of the Nations Cup. Players who own a copy of Gran Turismo 7 for PlayStation 4 or PlayStation 5 can participate in the competition by starting the Sports Mode within the game. Whether you want to race for your country or region in the Nations Cup or represent your favorite manufacturer in the Manufacturers Cup, sign up and get ready for exhilarating action on the virtual track.
New Format and Team Events
In a departure from previous years, the seven rounds of the Nations Cup online series will now be held as a consecutive block, with Round 7 taking place on Saturday, June 3. Immediately following is Round 1 of the Manufacturers Cup on Wednesday, June 7, and the final round will be held on Saturday, July 1. This condensed format promises intensified competition and non-stop excitement for both participants and spectators alike.
Road to the Live Events
The results of the online series will determine which players receive invitations to the two live events of the 2023 series. First, there’s the “World Series” Showdown in Amsterdam on August 11-12, where the top contenders will battle it out. Then, the World Finale, taking place in early December at a yet-to-be-announced location, will be the ultimate showdown to crown the Gran Turismo World Series champion.
Recapping the Intense 2022 Finale
Last year’s Manufacturers Cup World Finale in Monaco ended in a thrilling tie between Subaru and Toyota, with Subaru emerging victorious thanks to a last-minute win in the final race by drivers Daniel Solis (USA), Takuma Miyazono (JPN), and Kylian Drumont (FRA). The Nations Cup was equally intense, with a close race for the top spot. Ultimately, Coque López from Spain claimed the championship title in the “World Series” after a nail-biting final round. Angel Inostroza from Chile secured second place, while the Brazilian Igor Fraga, the first-ever world champion in 2018, rounded out the podium.
In 2023, the Nations Cup format undergoes a transformation, with the Showdown and World Finale now taking place as team events. Similar to the Manufacturers Cup, three drivers from each country will join forces to compete for the coveted title. This change aims to bring a fresh dynamic to the competition and amplify the excitement for both participants and fans.
Moreover, alongside the Gran Turismo World Series, another exciting event awaits in 2023—the Olympic Esports Series, where top players from around the world will convene in Singapore at the end of June. Additionally, fans can look forward to the release of a “Gran Turismo” film in August, coinciding with the Showdown event in Amsterdam. The film pays tribute to the success of the “Nissan PlayStation GT Academy” program and promises to captivate fans with its celebration of the franchise.
Gran Turismo World Series Partners and Opportunities
Michelin, TOYOTA GAZOO Racing (TGR), Genesis, Mazda, Brembo, Sony Alpha, and BBS continue their support as partners of the Gran Turismo World Series. Through the Sports Mode of Gran Turismo 7, the online rounds of the series are open to all players with a PS Plus membership. Organized in a league format, the players compete in three leagues determined by the driver rating to ensure races with a balanced skill level. Qualification for the “World Series” Showdown and World Finale is subject to participation conditions outlined on the Gran Turismo website.
In addition to the Gran Turismo World Series, the TOYOTA GAZOO Racing GT Cup is already underway. The seven online qualifying rounds will conclude on August 27, with the finals taking place as part of the Grand Finale of the Gran Turismo World Series at the end of the year.
For the first time since early 2020 in Sydney, Gran Turismo fans will have the opportunity to experience the Gran Turismo World Series live and in person. Both the Showdown event in Amsterdam and the World Finale will be open to spectators. Keep an eye on gran-turismo.com and the Gran Turismo social media channels for ticket information.
Join the exhilarating world of Gran Turismo and prepare for thrilling races, intense rivalries, and unforgettable moments on the virtual track.
Internet connection and PS Plus membership required for participation.
Conclusion:
As the Gran Turismo World Series 2023 kicks off, fans can expect a new format and team events that will bring fresh excitement to the virtual racing scene. The Amsterdam Showdown and World Finale will showcase the best of the best, as players from around the world battle it out for the championship title. With additional events such as the Olympic Esports Series and the release of a Gran Turismo film, there’s no shortage of thrilling experiences for Gran Turismo fans in 2023. Don’t miss your chance to be part of the action and witness the intense competition firsthand. Get ready to buckle up and hit the virtual track in the ultimate racing extravaganza!
