2026 GT World Challenge Europe Sprint Cup Preview: Brands Hatch Set to Host Competitive Opening Round
A 34-car grid will mark the start of the 2026 GT World Challenge Europe Sprint Cup season at Brands Hatch, scheduled for May 1-3. The diverse entry features multiple manufacturers across the Pro, Gold, and Silver classes, while the Bronze Cup is absent due to venue capacity limits.
Pro Class Highlights
The Pro category sees 14 entries representing eight manufacturers. Defending champion Team WRT aims to retain its title with three BMW M4 GT3 Evos. They face stiff competition from notable rivals: Garage 59 with a McLaren GT3 Evo, Winward Racing’s Mercedes-AMG GT3 Evo, Rutronik Racing’s Lamborghini Temerario GT3, and AF Corse’s Ferrari 296 GT3 Evo. Other competitors include Verstappen Racing and Emil Frey Racing, who will field an additional Mercedes-AMG and a pair of Ferraris, respectively.
Notably, Comtoyou Racing will run an Aston Martin Vantage AMR GT3 Evo, alongside entries from Eastalent Racing’s Audi R8 LMS GT3 Evo II, and two Porsche 911 GT3 R (992.2) from Boutsen VDS and Lionspeed GP, the latter of which has yet to reveal its driver lineup.
Gold and Silver Cup Insights
The Gold Cup will see an increased participation of eight cars, thanks to KPX Motorsport’s recent transition into the class, fielding David Pittard and Jop Rappange in its #77 M4 GT3 Evo.
The Silver Cup features 12 entries, with Comtoyou Racing defending its title through a new partnership of Oliver Söderström and Arthur Dorison. Walkenhorst Motorsport has adjusted its driver lineup for its Aston Martin Vantage AMR GT3 Evos, assigning Jamie Day and Mateo Villagomez to the #34 entry, while Maxime Robin and Gaspard Simon will take the wheel of the #35.
Additionally, Razoon – more than racing has confirmed Simon Birch for its #914 Porsche 911 GT3 R (992.2).
The opening weekend promises two intense 60-minute races on Sunday, setting the stage for a competitive season ahead in the GT World Challenge Europe.
Race Dates: May 1-3, 2026
Location: Brands Hatch, UK
Image Credit: SRO/JEP
