2026 European Le Mans Series Preview
The 2026 European Le Mans Series (ELMS) will showcase a record 47-car field, continuing its growth as the premier ACO competition. The season kicks off at the 4 Hours of Barcelona from April 10 to 12.
Key Developments in LMP2
Ford Racing has entered the LMP2 arena in collaboration with Proton Competition, fielding the #9 ORECA 07 – Gibson in preparation for its 2027 debut in the FIA WEC’s Hypercar class. Venture Engineering’s Dan Sayers emphasized that crew development is the primary focus; however, drivers Mike Rockenfeller, Sebastien Priaulx, and ELMS winner Jonas Ried suggest a competitive edge.
Defending champions Panis Racing will compete as “Forestier Racing by Panis” under the new #29 banner, with Esteban Masson and Oliver Gray, alongside rookie Louis Rousset. Inter Europol Competition, last year’s runner-up, returns with their strong lineup of Jakub Smiechowski, Tom Dillmann, and Nick Yelloly, making them favorites for the title.
Genesis Magma Racing will also field a competitive #18 entry alongside their #28 ORECA, featuring returning drivers Paul Lafague, Paul-Loup Chatin, and Job van Uitert.
New drivers are entering LMP2, including former champions Theodor Jensen and Adrien Closmenil stepping up from LMP3 with CLX Motorsport, while United Autosports aims to bounce back with Australian Griffin Peebles joining their effort in a fire-damaged #22 ORECA.
LMP3 and LMGT3 Insights
In the LMP3 category, CLX Motorsport looks to defend its title, following a season in which they dominated with five wins. The entry list remains stable, featuring ten teams, with a notable move from DKR Engineering to Ligier.
The LMGT3 field will expand to 14 cars. Defending champions TF Sport will field an overhauled #33 Corvette, while Richard Mille AF Corse remains unchanged with the #50 Ferrari 296 LMGT3 Evo, although Lilou Wadoux is replacing due to a scheduling conflict.
Notable Entries
Vector Sport and Nielsen Racing seek to improve on last year’s fourth and fifth-place finishes. Albert Pro Racing welcomes new drivers to an all-new line-up. The overall competitiveness is expected to heighten with fresh faces and strategic team changes, including the addition of prominent names like ex-Formula E driver Jake Hughes in LMP2 for Algarve Pro Racing.
As the season begins, all eyes will be on how teams adapt and leverage their new line-ups to settle scores and carve out their paths in this prestigious series.
