• GT World Challenge powered by AWS headlines opening event with six-hour sunset race
• Support from GT4 European Series, Lamborghini Super Trofeo, and GT3 Revival Series
• Open paddock, fan zone, supercar displays and much more for spectators to experience
The waiting is nearly over. Six months after the engines fell silent, the new GT World season is upon us. Another year of unforgettable action is on the horizon – and it all begins next weekend (11–12 April) at Circuit Paul Ricard .
GT World Challenge powered by AWS headlines the event with its traditional six-hour race. Three other high-level GT series will also feature, including a brand-new addition that celebrates the remarkable legacy of the GT3 category.
And as ever the public will be at the very heart of the programme, with a dedicated fan zone, open paddock, pit walks, grid walks, and autograph sessions among the many activities they can expect.
Six-hour sunset showdown opens new season
The weekend's headline event will see a 59-car grid featuring 10 manufacturers split across four classes. Among those to look out for, defending series champions Charles Weerts and Kelvin van der Linde will share the #32 Team WRT BMW with new recruit Jordan Pepper. Last year's Endurance Cup champion Rutronik Racing begins a new chapter by giving the Lamborghini Temerario GT3 its European debut, while Ferrari (296 GT3 EVO), Ford (Mustang GT3), and Porsche (911 GT3 R EVO) have all introduced upgraded cars.
Verstappen Racing should also be a major factor this year. The team created by the four-time Formula 1 world champion has added two GT superstars – Jules Gounon and Dani Juncadella – alongside Max's young protégée Chris Lulham. Speaking of champions, MotoGP legend Valentino Rossi returns full-time at the wheel of the #46 Team WRT BMW.
Fans at the track will also recognise international teams such as AF Corse (Ferrari), whose line-up includes Arthur Leclerc, as well as recent CrowdStrike 24 Hours of Spa winners TGI Team by GRT (Lamborghini), Comtoyou Racing (Aston Martin) and ROWE Racing (BMW).
We also have more than 30 series rookies on the grid, including the impressive trio of Lance Stroll, Roberto Merhi and Mari Boya aboard the #18 Comtoyou Racing Aston Martin.
Trio of high-level GT series add even more on-track action
This isn't just one race: Circuit Paul Ricard hosts a GT festival with action across Saturday and Sunday. Alongside the main event, three high-level support series will raise the intensity.
The popular GT4 European Series opens its season, while Lamborghini Super Trofeo launches with a grid of ferocious V10 supercars. New for 2026 is the GT3 Revival Series. Marking 20 years of GT3, this retro championship showcases iconic cars from 2006-2013, including the Lamborghini Gallardo, BMW Z4 and Ford GT.
Fan activations
GT World events are built on accessibility, with an open paddock allowing everyone to get close to the action through pit walks, grid walks, and autograph sessions. At the heart of the paddock, a fan zone offers a DJ stage, photo booth, bars, food trucks, and a giant screen.
Special car exhibits include a selection of Lamborghini machinery celebrating 30 years since the Super Trofeo was first launched. Away from the main venue, Circuit Paul Ricard’s kart circuit and Xtrem Park – featuring quad biking, simulators, and mini golf – provide even more entertainment.
How to watch
GT World Challenge races are streamed live around the world on the GT World YouTube channel. This is entirely free, allowing fans to experience every second of the action no matter where they are. Selected free practice and qualifying sessions – as well as some support races – also air on GT World.
