Algarve Pro Racing Finalizes 2026 ELMS Driver Line-Up
Algarve Pro Racing has officially announced its driver line-up for the 2026 European Le Mans Series (ELMS), securing the talents of Jake Hughes and Tristan Vautier to share the #25 ORECA 07-Gibson in the LMP2 category alongside Matthias Kaiser.
Jake Hughes, 31, will make his endurance racing debut following a successful tenure in FIA Formula E and a strong background in junior single-seaters. In addition to his ELMS commitments, Hughes will serve as a simulator driver for McLaren in Formula 1 and reserve driver for Mahindra in Formula E.
“I’m extremely proud to be joining Algarve Pro Racing for the 2026 European Le Mans Series,” Hughes stated. “We worked well together during testing in Abu Dhabi, and I’m confident in our ability to challenge for race wins and the championship title.”
Tristan Vautier, 36, rejoins Algarve Pro after two seasons, having previously shown impressive form, including LMP2 victories in the Asian Le Mans Series. His experience includes competing for CLX – Pure Racing in both the ELMS and at the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
“I believe we have a strong line-up with good chemistry,” Vautier commented. “Stewart Cox emphasized that this line-up is designed to compete for the 2026 ELMS title, and I am eager to make that a reality.”
Matthias Kaiser, in his third consecutive season with the team, also aims to leverage his momentum from a successful Asian Le Mans Series campaign. Kaiser noted, “I want to fight for the championship. We have a strong team and driver line-up, and I’m excited for the season ahead.”
The team will continue to field two cars in the ELMS, with the #25 entry complemented by a Pro/Am entry featuring drivers Michael Jensen, Enzo Trulli, and Malthe Jakobsen in the #20 car.
The 2026 European Le Mans Series kicks off at Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, Spain, from April 10-12, 2026.
