Lionspeed GP Expands GT World Challenge Effort for 2026 Season
Lionspeed GP has confirmed a strategic return to the GT World Challenge Europe Endurance Cup for the 2026 season, expanding its efforts to field two Porsche 911 GT3 Rs. The team is poised for a competitive season, already announcing a formidable driver lineup for its #89 car.
Team Principal Patrick Kolb will drive alongside Bashar Mardini, who makes his Endurance Cup debut, and three-time champion Alex Fontana, aiming for success in the Bronze Cup class. Fontana, with an impressive 50% class title win record, noted his excitement: “Lionspeed is a benchmark team in SRO competition… I’m looking forward to competing at the highest level.”
Mardini, who excelled in 2025’s Sprint Cup with three victories and a second-place finish in the Bronze Cup standings, expressed his confidence for the upcoming season. “I think we’re going to be more prepared this year than I was last year at this time,” he said, referencing a successful outing at the Monza 500KM where he and Fontana won the Pro-Am class.
Kolb, a consistent presence in Lionspeed’s lineup since its inception in 2024, previously achieved a third-place finish in the Bronze Cup drivers’ championship, highlighting the team’s dedication to continual improvement.
Further details regarding the second entry will be announced in due course. The 2026 GT World Challenge Europe Endurance Cup opens at Circuit Paul Ricard from April 10-11, 2026.
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