GT World Challenge Europe - Round 1

Circuit Paul Ricard hosts Round 1 of the GT World Challenge Europe Powered by AWS Endurance Cup. This race marks the opening round of the series and features a six-hour endurance format. The circuit in Le Castellet, France, provides the backdrop for teams and drivers to begin their championship campaigns across four competitive classes.

Race Format and Classes

The GT World Challenge Europe features a 6-hour endurance race at Circuit Paul Ricard. A 59-car field competes across four distinct classes: Pro, Gold Cup, Silver Cup, and Bronze Cup. The Pro class features 17 entries, representing the highest level of competition in the series. Each class offers teams the opportunity to score points toward their respective championships.

Circuit Paul Ricard Overview

Circuit Paul Ricard measures 5.842 kilometers in length and features 15 turns run in a clockwise direction. The circuit opened in 1970 and became known for its innovative safety features. Paul Ricard, a pastis magnate, built the facility with a focus on creating a safe racing environment.

Track Characteristics

The Mistral Straight extends for 1.8 kilometers and serves as the circuit's most prominent feature. Run-off areas incorporate abrasive colored strips that help slow cars that leave the racing surface. The circuit offers more than 160 possible course configurations, though the GT World Challenge Europe uses the main GP layout. The location near Marseille in the Var region provides teams with a Mediterranean setting for the season opener.

Manufacturers and Teams

Ten manufacturers compete in Round 1 at Circuit Paul Ricard. Aston Martin, Audi, BMW, Chevrolet, Ferrari, Ford, Lamborghini, McLaren, Mercedes-AMG, and Porsche all field entries. Corvette returns to GT World Challenge Europe competition after an absence since 2014. Ferrari enters seven 296 GT3 cars through teams including AF Corse - Francorchamps Motors, Kessel Racing, Rinaldi Racing, and Ziggo Sport Tempesta Racing.

Technical Regulations

The GT World Challenge Europe uses FIA-homologated GT3 cars. A Balance of Performance system maintains competitive parity between different manufacturers. The series issued a specific BoP document for Circuit Paul Ricard that adjusts various technical parameters.

Pit Stop Requirements

Minimum pit stop time between pit entry and exit stands at 77.0 seconds. Refueling must take a minimum of 43.0 seconds. Teams must manage these requirements strategically throughout the six-hour race duration. Pirelli serves as the official tire supplier for all competitors.

Additional Technical Elements

Cars carry official television on-board cameras when requested by race organizers. Parc Fermé conditions apply after pre-qualifying, qualifying, and the race. Teams must comply with FIA International Sporting Code provisions and GT World Challenge Europe Sporting Regulations.

Series Structure

The GT World Challenge Europe season includes both Endurance Cup and Sprint Cup rounds. The Endurance Cup features longer races like the six-hour format at Circuit Paul Ricard. The series also includes the CrowdStrike 24 Hours of Spa as a signature event. Additional venues on the calendar include Monza, Nürburgring, and Barcelona.

What Makes This Event Notable

Circuit Paul Ricard returns as the GT World Challenge Europe season opener, a role it held from 2015 to 2023. The six-hour format provides teams with an immediate endurance challenge. The large car count and manufacturer diversity create varied competition across all four classes. The circuit's long straight and technical sections test both car setup and driver skill. Pre-season testing at the same venue gives teams valuable data before the racing begins.

This opening round establishes early championship momentum. Teams adapt to regulation changes implemented for the season. The combination of established teams and returning manufacturers creates a competitive field. Circuit Paul Ricard's extensive run-off areas and multiple configurations demonstrate its versatility as a racing facility.