2026 FIA World Endurance Championship Calendar Unveiled
The FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) has confirmed its 2026 calendar, featuring eight rounds across the same circuits as the previous year. The announcement coincides with the lead-up to the 93rd Le Mans 24 Hours.
Key Calendar Details:
- Opening Race: The season begins with a Prologue test in Qatar on March 22-23, followed by the Qatar 1812km race on March 28. The start date has shifted to avoid conflict with Ramadan, now overlapping with IMSA’s Sebring 12 Hours.
- European Rounds: Subsequent races include the 6 Hours of Imola on April 19 and the 6 Hours of Spa-Francorchamps on May 9, culminating in the prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans on June 13-14, which coincides with the Formula One Spanish Grand Prix.
- Return to South America: Teams will race in São Paulo on July 12, 2026, marking a second consecutive year at this venue.
- North American Spotlight: The Lone Star Le Mans returns to the Circuit of the Americas on September 6, solidifying Austin’s status as the WEC’s North American hub for a third straight year.
- Final Races: The season wraps up with the 6 Hours of Fuji in Japan on September 27 and an eight-hour finale at Bahrain on November 7.
Strategic Insights:
The WEC decided against expanding the calendar, responding to teams’ concerns while maintaining existing venues. This stability is expected to benefit both participants and fans, aligning with the series’ long-term growth strategy.
“We are excited to again bring the thrills of WEC to the USA,” said Andy Soucek, VP of Motorsports at CoTA. “There’s no greater place to race than COTA.”
Frédéric Lequien, WEC CEO, emphasized the significance of the established circuits: “Every circuit offers its unique characteristics and invariably brings out the best from our incredible drivers, cars, and teams.”
Pierre Fillon, ACO President, remarked on the championship’s stability, highlighting its value as a platform for manufacturers.
2026 FIA WEC Calendar:
- March 22-23: Official Prologue (QAT)
- March 28: Qatar 1812km (QAT)
- April 19: 6 Hours of Imola (ITA)
- May 9: 6 Hours of Spa-Francorchamps (BEL)
- June 13-14: 24 Hours of Le Mans (FRA)
- July 12: 6 Hours of São Paulo (BRA)
- September 6: Lone Star Le Mans (USA)
- September 27: 6 Hours of Fuji (JPN)
- November 7: 8 Hours of Bahrain (BAH)
The 2026 season promises to build on the WEC’s successful formula, maintaining a robust platform for endurance racing at world-class venues.
