FIA GT World Cup Update: Key Developments and Insights
Macau, October 2025 – The #992 Tempo by Absolute Racing Porsche, driven by Laurens Vanthoor, successfully completed scrutineering and is set to return to action today after a minor incident during FP1 at Turn 2. The team efficiently replaced the rear subframes and reinstalled the engine overnight.
“We were lucky at the angle that the car hit at the back,” commented Alex Gibot, Porsche Motorsport Asia Pacific boss. “The car took the hit well; while there was damage, it was a relatively straightforward job, executed quickly by the team.”
Performance Monitoring Introduced
This year’s FIA GT World Cup features a significant innovation: torque sensors for GT3 cars, enhancing performance monitoring. Entry numbers have declined to 16 quality cars, attributed primarily to rising costs, which impacted Mercedes AMG’s decision to withdraw.
Stefan Wendl of Mercedes AMG Customer Racing noted, “The decision was based on using customer cars in the region for this meeting. The complexity of adding sensors for a single event was a burden we did not anticipate.” Costs for entered vehicles reportedly range from €60,000 to above €100,000.
McLaren’s Decadal Return
The sole Optimum Motorsport McLaren, driven by Benji Goethe, signifies the brand’s return to the Macau Grand Prix after a decade, marking the debut of the 720S. Goethe aims to familiarize himself with the challenging circuit and prepare for future competitions.
“I don’t think anyone expects to win here in their first year. It’s essential for me to gather experience and avoid the wall,” said Goethe. “McLaren seems motivated to return as well.”
Goethe’s current lap performance reflects a cautious approach, highlighting the track’s narrowness and complexity. “It’s probably the craziest track I’ve ever been on. I’m enjoying it and building confidence lap by lap.”
Paddock Insights
Among notable figures spotted in the paddock was Emanuele Pirro, Chairman of the FIA Single Seater Commission, alongside Romolo Liebchen, former head of Audi Sport Customer Racing, who was visiting the area.
As the event continues, teams and drivers remain focused on maximizing performance and adapting to the unique challenges of the Macau circuit.
