Post-Season Testing at Portimão: European Le Mans Series Teams Evaluate 2027 Potential
Portimão, Portugal – Following the conclusion of the European Le Mans Series finale and Rookie Test, multiple teams remained at the Autódromo Internacional do Algarve for additional post-season testing, featuring 29 cars from 13 teams.
AF Corse led the contingent with six entries, including two ORECA 07-Gibsons and four Ferrari 296 GT3 Evos—one configured in LMGT3 specification. Notably, all but one vehicle utilized Michelin tires, likely in preparation for the Asian Le Mans Series. Drivers Julien Andlauer and Alessio Rovera were behind the wheel of the #83 ORECA, while Phil Hanson and Alex Demirdjian tested in the newly designated #55.
Algarve Pro Racing also participated, fielding three ORECA 07-Gibsons with a mix of drivers including ELMS LMP3 racer Nick Adcock, among others. The team provided support for additional entries, including Team Virage and a previous-generation Duqueine D08 LMP3 for Mark Krader.
Both CLX Motorsport and DKR Engineering tested their respective ORECA 07-Gibson and Ligier JS P325-Toyota, with various drivers in attendance for assessments. High Class Racing featured its #54 Porsche 911 GT3 R (992.2) LMGT3, piloted by Stefan Aust and Felipe Fernandez-Laser.
Interestingly, Kessel Racing’s #57 Ferrari 296 LMGT3 Evo utilized unbranded tires, potentially indicating future development rubber, as the team included Mathys Jaubert among its drivers. Proton Competition tested an ORECA alongside two 911 GT3 Rs, with notable performances from Claudio Schiavoni and Lucas Fluxa.
Concerns emerged regarding driver line-up completions for several confirmed Asian Le Mans Series competitors, highlighting ongoing challenges for teams as they prepare for the upcoming season.
The intensive seven-day testing round will culminate before the arrival of trucks for the GT World Challenge Europe series finale, demonstrating the continuous evolution of team strategies and vehicle performance heading into 2027.
Photo Credits: David Lord
