Commits to SRO GT Academy for 2026
• Legendary manufacturer plots international assault in GT2 European Series powered by Pirelli
• Ligier drivers to be eligible for exceptional SRO GT Academy prize
• Eight brands now active in growing GT2 category ahead of much-anticipated 2026 season
Ligier Automotive has announced its intention to join the GT2 European Series powered by Pirelli grid in 2026, while also adding its support to the new SRO GT Academy concept which will be introduced next season.
The storied French marque will use the JS2 RS for what represents its biggest foray yet into the ferociously competitive world of modern GT racing. Launched earlier this year, the new model takes its inspiration from the JS2 that finished second overall at the 1975 Le Mans 24 Hours.
Built on an FIA-homologated carbon monocoque and powered by a 3.5L Ford Ecoboost V6, the JS2 RS is capable of producing up to 650 horsepower (subject to Balance of Performance). The car also boasts hydraulic power steering, a BREMBO steel braking system, and ABS and traction control from Bosch among many other features.
“Joining the GT2 European Series powered by Pirelli is a great recognition for our brand and for our new GT,” said Jacques Nicolet, President of Ligier Automotive. "With the Ligier JS2 RS, we wanted to offer a real race car – radical yet easy to handle – with reasonable running costs. Entering GT2 Europe allows us to offer a new playground for the teams and drivers who trust us, and to attract new ones.”
In a further demonstration of its commitment to GT2 Europe, the French manufacturer has joined Ginetta, Maserati and Mercedes-AMG in supporting the SRO GT Academy. All Silver-graded drivers under the age of 30 who compete with one of these four brands will be eligible for an incredible prize: a fully funded (excluding crash damage) GT World Challenge Europe Endurance Cup seat with a leading Mercedes-AMG Customer Racing Team in 2027.
The hopefuls will be assessed by a panel of expert judges, who will focus on criteria such as fastest qualifying laps and average stint times, while excluding external factors such as co-driver performance and reliability. Additional manufacturers may choose to join the programme ahead of the new season, thereby making their drivers eligible for GT Academy.
“It is always fantastic to welcome a new manufacturer to one of our series, especially an iconic brand with such rich racing heritage as Ligier,” said Stéphane Ratel, SRO Motorsports Group founder and CEO. “Having already competed with us in FFSA TC France, it is very encouraging that they will now join the GT2 European Series powered by Pirelli, especially as part of the SRO GT Academy. This adds another option for teams and drivers wishing to be on the grid next year and compete for a significant opportunity in 2027.”
Jacques Nicolet added: “Supporting drivers throughout their journey has always been a priority for us at Ligier Automotive. With our Ligier Junior Programme in endurance racing, we are already helping young talents take key steps forward. Joining the SRO GT Academy within the GT2 European Series is therefore a natural move for us – it’s an opportunity to continue supporting the next generation in a structured and professional environment.”
Ligier becomes the eighth brand to make a car available for the 2026 GT2 Europe campaign. In addition to the four eligible for the SRO GT Academy prize, machinery is also produced by Audi, KTM, Lamborghini and Porsche.
Next season will consist of five rounds, beginning at Monza on 30/31 May before tackling Spa-Francorchamps (20/21 June), Misano (18/19 July), Zandvoort (19/20 September) and Portimão (17/18 October). Four events will support GT World Challenge Europe powered by AWS, while the Spa-Francorchamps round will join a packed line-up as part of Spa Speedweek, ahead of the CrowdStrike 24 Hours of Spa.
