Formula Libre

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Formula Libre (also known as 'Formule Libre') is a form of automobile racing allowing a wide variety of types, ages and makes of purpose-built racing cars to compete "head to head". This can make for some interesting matchups, and provides the opportunity for some compelling driving performances against superior machinery.

Most recently, the British Open Single Seaters (BOSS) Formula has spawned EuroBOSS [[1]] and USBOSS [[2]] equivalents, signalling the re-emergence of Formula Libre events. Racing purists have come to embrace Formula Libre as an alternative to the increasing preponderance of spec racing series', and a number of competitors' vehicles are cars orphaned by discontinued spec series'.

Formula Libre has provided some ambitious young drivers with an alternative to series' with higher competitive costs and lower performance. Most recently, the UK's BRDC awarded their Rising Star award to 2004 EuroBOSS Champion Scott Mansell [[3]].

The concept is arguably the oldest in motor racing:

• Grand Prix racing adopted Formule Libre briefly, beginning in 1928.
• Formula Libre racing is currently very popular in South Africa.[4]
• Germany's Interserie runs as a Formula Libre, mixing single-seat formula cars with sports racing prototypes. [5]
• USAC held a famous Formula Libre race at Indianapolis Raceway Park in 1962.
• Formula Libre is a popular class in historic or vintage racing.
• Lime Rock Park held a famous Formula Libre race in 1959, where Rodger Ward shocked the expensive and exotic sports cars by beating them on the road course in an Offenhauser powered midget car, normally considered competitive for oval tracks only.
• 1971's Questor Grand Prix was a well-attended inter-series race between Formula 1, Formula 5000, and ChampCar teams, featuring top drivers at California's Ontario Motor Speedway.