Osborne and Koch Team Up for 2026 International GT Open Finale
In a significant development ahead of the 2026 International GT Open season finale, Joe Osborne will reunite with Optimum Motorsport and partner with American driver Ford Koch at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya on October 24-25. This marks Osborne’s return to the series after a three-year hiatus, having last competed alongside Nick Moss at Monza in 2023.
Osborne, a veteran in GT3 racing and former McLaren factory driver, has a long-standing relationship with Optimum Motorsport dating back to 2007. He finished as the GT Open runner-up in 2022 and aims to replicate the success he achieved in the 2020 season finale at Barcelona.
“It’s mega to be back in a championship I love, with a team I love, and a car I love,” Osborne stated. He previously coached Koch during a McLaren Experience event when Koch was just 15, recognizing his potential early on.
Koch, 20, will make his European debut driving the #23 McLaren GT3 Evo in the Pro class. With prior experience in the IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge and other North American series, he is eager to transition to European competition. “I’m excited to come over for my first taste of European GT3 racing with Optimum,” Koch said.
Both drivers express high expectations for the Barcelona event, highlighting their mutual respect and collaboration. The race promises to be a competitive platform for Koch’s European debut as he steps into the GT3 arena under the guidance of the experienced Osborne.
