> Revised class structure sees Silver-Am replaced
> Am class remains unchanged
SRO Motorsports Group Asia will expand its Japan Cup GT4 class in 2026 by introducing Silver and Pro-Am categories.
The existing Am classification completes GT4’s revised three-class structure, which no longer features Silver-Am.
Two FIA Silver graded drivers are permitted to race together in the new Silver class. Much like GT World Challenge Asia powered by AWS regulations, these crews will be subject to performance adjustments, such as either weight or time, to maintain a competitive balance with GT4’s new Pro-Am category.
The new Silver class represents a cost-effective platform where promising young Japanese drivers will gain the relevant experience required to graduate into senior domestic categories, such as Japan Cup’s GT3 class, Super GT and Super Taikyu, or international series.
Alongside it, and with an equal opportunity to win overall, is the new Pro-Am category, which replaces Silver-Am. It is reserved for Silver or Gold graded drivers paired with a Bronze.
These two classes have co-existed for many years in several other SRO series, most notably the GT4 European Series powered by RAFA Racing Club and British GT Championship.
The existing Am class remains unchanged, with either one or two Bronze graded drivers permitted to race each entry.
2026 JAPAN CUP CALENDAR
March 18: Fuji Speedway Pirelli One-Day Test
May 15-17: Sportsland SUGO – 2x 1-hour races
July 10-12: Fuji Speedway – 2x 1-hour races (SRO GT PowerTour)
August 28-30: Okayama International Circuit – 2x 1-hour races (SRO GT PowerTour)
September 11-13: Suzuka International Circuit – 2x 1-hour races (Suzuka 1000km)