GT World Challenge America - Round 2

Round 2 of the GT World Challenge America series takes place at Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas. This race represents a significant change for the championship, as the series introduces a new 3-hour endurance format across all rounds. The Circuit of the Americas offers a challenging test for GT3 teams and drivers with its dramatic elevation changes and technical corner sequences.

New Race Format for 2026

The championship has replaced its traditional pair of 90-minute sprint races with a single 3-hour endurance race at each round. This format emphasizes strategy, stamina, and teamwork between co-drivers. Teams must manage pit stops, driver changes, and tire strategy over the extended race distance.

The weekend includes three 30-minute practice sessions and one 15-minute qualifying session to set the grid. Pit stop regulations allow teams flexibility in their approach. Teams can choose how many stops to make, and they are not required to change all four tires at each stop. Stops without refueling have no minimum time requirement, while full-service stops with refueling follow a declared minimum time.

Class Regulations

The Pro-Am class features specific requirements for driver lineups. Driver 1, the amateur Bronze-rated competitor, must qualify the car and start the race. Bronze-rated drivers must complete at least 1 hour and 15 minutes of the 3-hour race. Maximum stint length is set at 50 minutes, which can extend to 55 minutes under safety car or Full Course Yellow conditions.

Circuit of the Americas Details

Circuit of the Americas is a Grade 1 FIA-specification racing facility that measures 3.426 miles (5.514 km) in length. The track runs counter-clockwise, which makes it one of the few circuits globally to use this direction. The layout features 20 corners, with 11 left-hand turns and 9 right-hand turns.

The track is known for significant elevation changes, with a 133-foot (40.5-meter) difference between its lowest and highest points. Turn 1, often called "Big Red" or "The Tower," stands as the circuit's signature corner. This steep, blind, uphill left-hander challenges drivers and creates overtaking opportunities at race starts and restarts.

German architect Hermann Tilke designed Circuit of the Americas, incorporating elements inspired by famous corners from other circuits around the world. The facility can accommodate 120,000 spectators and includes a 251-foot observation tower with a distinctive red steel design.

GT3 Competition

GT World Challenge America features FIA GT3-homologated race cars from leading automotive manufacturers. These production-based sports cars balance performance and durability for endurance racing. Teams compete across three classes: Pro, Pro-Am, and Am, with two-driver lineups in each entry.

Technical Specifications

GT3 cars produce approximately 565 horsepower, though exact outputs vary based on Balance of Performance adjustments. These machines use sophisticated aerodynamic packages, including front wheel arch ventiducts and swan-neck rear wings. Sequential six-speed gearboxes and advanced suspension systems help drivers manage the cars through demanding circuits like Circuit of the Americas.

The Balance of Performance system equalizes competition between different manufacturers and models. Officials adjust power, weight, and aerodynamic elements to ensure close racing across the diverse GT3 grid.

Teams and Manufacturers

The championship attracts professional racing teams fielding GT3 machinery from top manufacturers. Confirmed entries for the season include Dollahite Racing with a Ford Mustang GT3 Evo, McCann Racing, AF Corse USA, and Kellymoss. Additional teams and entries continue to be finalized as the season progresses.

Championship Context

The GT World Challenge America series has operated since 1990, originally launched by the Sports Car Club of America. SRO Motorsports Group has managed the championship since 2018, with sanctioning from the United States Auto Club since 2017. Competitors earn points toward both the American championship and the global GT World Challenge Powered by AWS championship, connecting teams and manufacturers worldwide.

Circuit of the Americas has served as a regular venue for the series since the track opened in 2012. The facility was the first purpose-built Formula 1 circuit in the United States, with legendary driver Mario Andretti completing the ceremonial first laps.

Fan Experience

GT World Challenge America events at Circuit of the Americas offer an open paddock format. Fans can access the garage area, observe teams at work, and meet drivers. The facility operates as a year-round multi-use venue, featuring a 5,036-seat stadium and extensive spectator areas around the circuit.

Support series share the weekend schedule, including Pirelli GT4 America, GT America Powered by AWS, TC America Powered by Skip Barber, Toyota GR Cup North America, and McLaren Trophy America. This lineup provides continuous on-track action across multiple racing categories.

Round 2 at Circuit of the Americas showcases the new endurance format while testing teams on one of North America's most challenging racing facilities. The combination of GT3 technology, professional driver lineups, and the demanding Texas circuit creates compelling competition for fans and participants alike.