Auto GP series bosses are aiming for races in Brazil, the United States and Japan as part of their 2012 calendar.
The first draft for next season's schedule is made up of eight events, with the final three races being at Curitiba in Brazil, Sonoma in the US and Suzuka in Japan.
According to the current plan all eight races will be in support of the World Touring Car Championship, which will visit the US for the first time in 2012 with a race at Sonoma.
Although the WTCC calendar hasn't yet been announced, the Auto GP draft hints that the season opener will return to Monza in early March, with Curitiba returning to a mid-season date in July like it held in its first year on the calendar in 2006. The US date appears that it will be slotted in late-September.
“Improving step by step has always been our philosophy, and 2011 was a key year, thanks to our agreement with WTCC and Eurosport,” said series boss Enzo Coloni. “So, looking to next season, we believe that the time has come to raise the bar again: our aim for 2012 is an improved calendar, with one more race compared to this year, and an even tighter cooperation with our partners.
“This means racing for the whole season together with the World Touring Car Championship, including three intercontinental events in Brazil, USA and Japan. We are speaking about this with the WTCC organization and their attitude on the matter is very positive, and in the meantime our staff is working at full steam to cope with the logistical needs.”
First draft of 2012 Auto GP calendar:
11 March: Monza (I)
1 April: Valencia (E)
15 April: Donington Park (UK)
13 May: Budapest (HUN)
3 June: Brno (CZ)
29 July: Curitiba (BR)
23 September: Sonoma (USA)
21 October: Suzuka (J)
