McLaren to Restructure Customer Racing Program, Phasing Out GT4 by 2029
Daytona, FL – McLaren Automotive has announced a strategic shift in its customer racing program, planning to gradually phase out its GT4 operations by the end of the decade. Giorgio Sanna, the newly appointed Head of Motorsport, confirmed the move during a recent media briefing.
McLaren entered the GT4 category in 2016 with the 570S GT4, followed by the Artura GT4, which made its debut at the IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge in 2023. The Artura GT4 secured the GT4 drivers’ and teams’ championships in British GT last season and achieved victories across various series.
Citing resource limitations, Sanna indicated that the brand will focus on expanding its McLaren Trophy and GT3 initiatives instead. “We have to keep focus on what we consider more important for the company,” Sanna commented, reflecting on the company’s strategic realignment. He added that, in the medium to long term, GT4 does not align with McLaren’s vision.
Competitors such as Ferrari and Lamborghini have similarly chosen to concentrate on GT3 and one-make racing, forgoing GT4 entries. “GT4 is a championship that we like… but ultimately, it’s not the stage where McLaren will be,” Sanna stated.
McLaren intends to support existing GT4 teams until 2029, assuring continued sales of the Artura GT4 and ongoing assistance, including spare parts, due to the shared components with the Artura Trophy Evo. “Spare parts will always be available because the existing car, the GT4, is similar to the Trophy,” Sanna confirmed.
The phase-out will allow existing customers options to transition to the McLaren Trophy with available upgrade kits, ensuring a smooth transition for teams invested in the current program.
As McLaren prepares for this transition, the focus on GT3 and the Trophy series represents a pivotal shift towards consolidating its motorsport identity in alignment with competitors and market trends.
