Hypercar Developments Ahead of 2026/2027 Season
Plans for the introduction of a Pro-Am hypercar class in the 2026/2027 season are advancing, with sources confirming the entry of 2-3 European-based teams. These entries will include vehicles from two established hypercar manufacturers.
Algarve Pro Racing Secures Quinn for 2026
Algarve Pro Racing has renewed Alex Quinn’s contract for the 2026 season. The 24-year-old will participate in the Asian Le Mans Series this winter and compete in the European Le Mans Series (ELMS) next year. The specific ORECA model he will drive has yet to be confirmed.
High Demand for 2025/2026 Entries
Paddock sources reported that the series organizers turned away 14-16 GT3 entries, highlighting the strong interest leading to a provisional full-season entry list of 48 cars for the upcoming season. The February races in the UAE are anticipated to attract additional participants, particularly in the GT class.
Al Qubaisi Family’s Aspirations
The Al Qubaisi sisters, Hamda and Amna, currently competing with Team Virage in the Ligier European Series, may join forces with their father, Khaled Al Qubaisi, in upcoming races. Khaled confirmed his commitment to racing in the Asian LMS series, hoping to create opportunities for shared experiences at Le Mans.
Record LMP2 Entry
The 2025/2026 LMP2 class has recorded a remarkable 16-car entry, with several new competitors. Stefan Aust, currently leading the Pro-Am standings in LMP3, will move up to LMP2, teaming with Felipe Laser and Jonas Ried at Proton Competition. Two LMP2 debutants, Horst Felbermayr and his son, will join in a second Proton entry.
Returning LMP2 champion Jens Reno Moller will also make his debut alongside accomplished drivers Gustavo Menezes and newcomers Ponos Racing from Japan, which is embarking on its LMP2 campaign while continuing its GT operations.
Notable Returns
Miro Konopka and Roberto Lacorte are re-entering the LMP2 class after time away from ACO-sanctioned events. Konopka’s ARC Bratislava will return with its well-known yellow-liveried Oreca, while Lacorte aims to resume competitive racing after a focus shift to GT categories.
Next Steps
Details on entry lists for LMP3 and GT categories will be covered in the subsequent report, continuing the focus on upcoming developments in the motorsports landscape.
