Optimum Motorsport Aims for Strong Finish in GT World Challenge Europe
Autódromo Internacional do Algarve, Portugal – Optimum Motorsport is set to conclude its 2026 GT World Challenge Europe Endurance Cup campaign this weekend at the Autódromo Internacional do Algarve. After four rounds, the team has faced challenges, securing just one podium finish, a testament to both their resilience and the fierce competition in the GT3 class.
The #4 McLaren GT3 Evo, driven by Harry George, Adam Smalley, and Freddie Tomlinson, alongside Ruben del Sarte for the 24 Hours of Spa, achieved notable success with a podium at Spa—an impressive feat given that Tomlinson and George are newcomers to GT3.
“It’s probably the hardest race series that you can do in a GT3 car,” Tomlinson stated, emphasizing the competitive landscape of the championship. The team’s experience culminated in a commendable performance at the Spa event, with Tomlinson calling it “incredible” to achieve a podium on his debut at the race.
Despite the challenges, Smalley, who has taken on a leadership role, reflected on their journey: “It’s been a tough season, but a really good learning curve… We’ve been a bit unlucky at places like Paul Ricard and Monza, but I think that’s not a true reflection of how the year’s gone.”
Their preparations for the final round acknowledge the distinct disadvantage of being an Endurance Cup-only team against rivals with full-season data. “The next new tyre run we had was eight weeks later at the Nürburgring,” Smalley noted, highlighting the logistical challenges of their campaign.
The #5 McLaren, driven by Guilherme Oliveira, Mikey Porter, and Dante Rappange, currently sits in a less favorable position, having faced three retirements and only finishing at the 24 Hours of Spa—a stark contrast to their performance in the Sprint Cup, where they secured two wins and multiple podiums, finishing third in the championship.
Reflecting on the season, Porter acknowledged the learning curve faced by the team, which has now transitioned to the McLaren GT3 Junior programme. “It’s cool to be part of something bigger than just the racing side of things,” he commented.
As the team heads into the finale, familiarity with the Portuguese venue could play a crucial role. “It’s a track we all know,” Porter stated confidently, setting high expectations for a strong finish.
With the stakes high, both Optimum Motorsport entries are poised to make their mark as the championship reaches its conclusion.
