Ferrari Debuts New Livery and Technical Innovations Ahead of WEC Season
The FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) kicked off its 2026 season, highlighting several key developments as teams prepare for competition at Imola.
New Livery for Defending Champions
The #51 Ferrari AF Corse 499P, driven by reigning champions James Calado, Antonio Giovinazzi, and Alessandro Pier Guidi, features five distinctive stripes on its windscreen header, echoing the jersey of the current world cycling champions. This design marks its debut at Imola, a track previously hosting the UCI Road World Championships in 2020. Both Ferraris showcase FIA champion laurels, honoring their 2025 manufacturers’ championship victory.
Class Stickers Removed
In 2026, the race cars will no longer display class identification stickers. Instead, this information will be accessible via digital displays integrated into each vehicle. Post-race podium finishes will now be visually represented with a laurel graphic, an enhancement implemented in response to fan feedback.
Bosch Extends Partnership
Bosch has extended its technical partnership with the FIA WEC through 2027. Ingo Mauel, Head of Bosch Motorsport, emphasized the collaboration as a platform for advancing hybrid technologies, stating, “This championship is the ultimate proving ground for our advanced hybrid systems, allowing us to push the boundaries of performance and efficiency.”
Legends of Le Mans Participation
Former drivers Alexander Wurz and Loic Duval were present in the Legends of Le Mans paddock, reminiscing with their Peugeot 908s, now managed by BBM Sport. Other notable visitors included Mike Conway and Nyck de Vries, who explored the historic vehicles.
Henrion Receives Drive Opportunity
Eric De Doncker has offered his 2025 Michelin Le Mans Cup champion partner, Gillian Henrion, a chance to drive the LMP1 Pescarolo during the Legends practice session.
Porsche Carrera Cup Deutschland Launches
The Porsche Carrera Cup Deutschland commenced its season at Imola, featuring the European debut of the new 992.2-spec Porsche 911 GT3 Cup. Notably, the grid includes the siblings of two 2024 24 Hours of Le Mans LMGT3 winners.
Engaging Community Events
Genesis Magma Racing hosted a pub quiz in its hospitality suite, featuring participation from FIA WEC drivers. The competition centered on themes related to Genesis and Italy, yielding a surprising victory for a team including Italian press members.
This opening weekend emphasizes not only competition but also community engagement as the WEC continues to evolve in response to fan and industry feedback.
