Pirelli says Porsche racers competing on its P Zero Racing Slicks and Racing Rain tires are impressed with this year’s inaugural Pirelli Drivers Cup USA, and the series will run again next year.

“Pirelli Drivers Cup USA had a great first season,” says Rafael Navarro III, director of motorsports and media relations.

The events feature Porsche 997 and 996 GT3 Cup Cars with drivers from the Porsche Owner’s Club (POC), Porsche Club of America (PCA), Sports Car Club of America (SCCA), Historic Sportscar Racing, Ltd. (HSR) and the National Auto Sport Association (NASA).

“As we look to our sophomore season in 2010, we are hoping to see sustainable growth across all three groups in the series,” Navarro observes. “This is exactly the type of grassroots motorsport that Pirelli is focusing on as we lead the motorsport industry in innovation and product quality.”

Sponsored by Pirelli and founded by Competent Motorsport, LLC, the series “gives drivers the opportunity to receive professional instruction in motorsport racing and to use those skills competitively on the track,” he says. “At the same time, it helps drivers, teams and fans develop a strong, positive relationship with the Pirelli brand.”

Participating drivers can take part in three-day racing/education programs at racetracks throughout the U.S. “The events offer drivers coaching and racing strategy sessions, ample practice time and sprint races,” notes Navarro.

“Porsche Motorsport North America works with Competent Motorsport to provide mentoring, parts support and technical support to the series, something not available at any other Porsche Club-level event,” Navarro points out. “The series provides a transitional opportunity to both the IMSA GT3 Cup Challenge and the Grand-Am Rolex Sports Car GT Series,” he adds.

“The Pirelli Drivers Cup USA is the premier American racing series focusing on both education and coaching – making its participants competent drivers at all levels,” says series executive director Greg Franz.

“Drivers get to race their own Porsche GT3 996 and 997 Cup Cars during several three day weekends throughout the year in an enjoyable atmosphere with one-on-one professional coaching and direct help from the Cup’s technical partners,” Franz says. “This unique blend of racing and education produces drivers that enjoy their on-track experience with competence.”

Drivers Brooks Potter, Bob Rodriguez and Brent Holden each claimed 2009 season championship crowns.

For more information, visit www.us.pirelli.com.