The prestigious Macau Grand Prix has been awarded FIA World Cup status following a restructure of the event’s organising committee.

The move will see the FIA take full control of the annual Formula 3 race including the technical regulations, entries and registrations.

This year’s race had been placed in doubt after long-time organisers Motor Race Consultants, led by Barry Bland, withdrew from organising the race, which has been held on the Macau streets since 1983.

A status change will bring the race in line with the FIA GT World Cup event held in support of the Macau Grand Prix.

The Macau Grand Prix Organising Committee has thanked Bland for his work over the last 33 years to build the event, and is looking forward to the FIA’s increased involvement.

“Since it began in 1983 Mr Barry Bland worked on the Formula 3 Macau Grand Prix,” read a statement from the Macau Grand Prix Organising Committee.

“As the race has now been elevated to World Cup status, regulations for the race have changed and therefore the FIA will be leading the project.

“As a result, Mr Barry Bland has made the decision to discontinue his involvement. The MGPOC respects Mr Bland’s decision and would like to convey its appreciation for his many years of contribution and valued service.

“The MGPOC would like to express its gratitude to the FIA for their trust and support, and will follow its guidance to ensure that the race will be organised to the same high international standards as in previous years.”

The entry list for the 63rd running of the Macau Grand Prix will be released in October.