At the dawn of the 2026 season, a dense fog seems to be settling over the Bourgogne-Franche-Comté League championship. While renewal is essential for the survival of our discipline, the proposed adaptations are now raising deep doubts among many drivers and clubs.
The reduction in the number of rounds, marked by the withdrawal of the organizations from the Circuit Jura Sud (CJS), and the growing concerns in the paddock are the most concrete signs. In order to translate these concerns into factual data, two surveys were conducted with drivers, taking into account the constraints of the FFM (noise pollution) and the arrival of the Vintage category.
The issue of the pre-grid
The most critical point concerns the closure of the pre-grid 10 minutes before the start. For many, this imposes a complex and costly logistics to maintain tire temperature (generators, tire warmers in the pre-grid), which goes against the accessible spirit of our championship.
Why not reduce this time to 2 minutes (with penalty) to ensure the thermal safety of the tires while maintaining strict timing control by the organization.
Organization of race days and race format
The survey revealed a rejection of shortened rounds (10 minutes). This format increases aggression at the start, as drivers no longer have time to build their comeback on a too small number of laps (e.g. 6 or 7 laps at Villars).
Regarding the Vintage category, drivers suggest its integration into existing groups (Open or Espoirs/Vétérans/Femmes) with a “points bonus” system, rather than a dedicated series that complicates the schedule. For example, a CR85 could compete in the Kids category.
Towards a hybrid approach for 2026
To date, opinions range from maintaining the 2025 regulations to adopting the organization proposed by the CJS (13-minute rounds, removal of the Superpole).
Rather than imposing a radical change, why not consider a hybrid approach for 2026? Testing different formats according to the events would allow for a factual analysis at the end of the season, to determine which organization is most suitable for 2027 in consultation with drivers, clubs, and the public.
Conclusion
It may be my Belgian nationality and our culture of compromise speaking here, but I remain convinced that dialogue will help us regain the serene atmosphere and attractiveness that were the strength of our League.
It would be regrettable to weaken the only French championship that allows young people to start safely and allows enthusiasts to ride without excessive financial constraints. For our sport to survive, the League, clubs, and drivers must move forward in harmony. Let’s reopen dialogue to find, together, suitable solutions.
Sportingly,
For the members of the CJS,
Christophe Delbecq
