The SRO Motorsports Group has released the official participant numbers for the upcoming GT World Challenge Europe season – and they are sending a clear signal: 59 cars will compete in the Endurance Cup, and 45 in the Sprint Cup. This means both competitions have reached their maximum capacity.
The season opener will take place on April 11th and 12th at the Circuit Paul Ricard. The final preparations are already underway for a motorsport year that promises high tension both on and off the track.
Ten manufacturers are fighting for wins
A total of ten renowned automotive brands will be represented in 2026:
Aston Martin.,
Audi,
BMW,
Chevrolet,
Ferrari,
Ford,
Lamborghini,
McLaren,
Mercedes-AMG and
Porsche.
A special highlight in the racing calendar is the CrowdStrike 24 Hours of Spa from June 25-28. An even larger field of participants is expected for this traditional endurance race. In addition to top sporting performance, a comprehensive event experience with a festival character will also be the focus.
Four classes ensure excitement
The vehicles compete in four categories:
- Pro Class: Professional drivers start here, often with direct support from manufacturers.
- Gold Cup and Silver CupThese classes combine professional and semi-professional drivers.
- Bronze CupThis category is based on the tried-and-tested Pro-Am principle and enjoys great popularity.
Numerous established teams have confirmed their participation for 2026, including former championship winners and successful participants of the 24 Hours of Spa. The driver lineup is also internationally top-class: professionals, promising talents, and ambitious amateurs from over 30 nations and six continents are on the entry list.
Organizer optimistic
Stéphane Ratel, founder and CEO of SRO Motorsports Group, emphasizes the special significance of the strong field of competitors. The combination of quantity and quality is exceptional in international GT sport. Furthermore, the events are to be further enhanced in 2026 through an expanded supporting program and additional entertainment for spectators on-site. Those who cannot make it to the track have the opportunity to follow the races worldwide free of charge via the series' official YouTube channel.
With these preconditions, the 2026 season promises to be an intense and varied motorsport year for teams, drivers, and fans alike.