2026 European Le Mans Series Rookie Test: Key Insights and Results from Portimão
The 2026 European Le Mans Series (ELMS) and Michelin Le Mans Cup Rookie Test at the Autódromo Internacional do Algarve showcased a competitive lineup of 41 vehicles across five classes, engaging nearly 100 drivers from various experience levels. The five-hour session featured 10 LMP2, 20 LMP3, 6 LMGT3, and unique entries like the LMP2 Pro/Am category, with minimal interruptions largely due to minor off-track incidents.
Notably, the #30 Duqueine Team ORECA 07, driven by Doriane Pin, topped the timing sheets in the afternoon with a lap time of 1:32.840. Indy NXT driver Tymoteusz Kucharczyk noted a strong showing as the fastest rookie in the #29 Forestier Racing by Panis ORECA, clocking 1:33.522.
In LMP3, Vic Stevens clinched the top position driving the #17 CLX Motorsport Ligier JS P325, while rookie acclaim belonged to Pacome Weisenburger in the #79 Forestier Racing by VPS Ligier. For LMGT3, Gaetano Di Mauro led the charge with a swift 1:42.795 in the #57 Kessel Racing Ferrari 296 LMGT3 Evo.
Team Insights and Future Planning
Trajectus Motorsport conducted tests with a new Duqueine D09, aiming for a potential transition from their current Ligier LMP3 setup. Team owner Benoit Treluyer addressed aspirations for ELMS LMP3 and LMP2 entries, indicating, “Of course we want to step up… We certainly want to try to attract the attention of an OEM.”
Meanwhile, AF Corse has begun preparations for the upcoming 2026/27 Asian Le Mans Series, unveiling a new ORECA 07-Gibson LMP2 car with a fresh branding livery. The team anticipates a busy testing schedule that includes returning to LMP2 competition.
Dinamic GT made early strides for the GT World Challenge Europe Endurance Cup finale with a Porsche 911 GT3 R on-site, positioning them favorably for the next phase of the season.
Driver Highlights
Franz Binder, testing a Proton ORECA, aims to gain further experience in high-downforce vehicles, while local contender Filipe Albuquerque sees a return to LMP2 competition with TDS Racing. Acknowledging the importance of seat time, Albuquerque stated, “These cars are just enormous fun and great to drive, particularly here (Portimão).” The driver is also aligning with an IMSA GTP seat with Cadillac Wayne Taylor Racing, enhancing his competitive landscape.
The Rookie Test proved essential for teams and drivers alike, providing a glimpse into potential talent for the 2027 season and facilitating strategic evaluations for upcoming races.
Images courtesy of David Lord and Boss Formula/Alexandre Montesinos.
