Round 8 & 9

The Pirelli GT4 America series returns to Road America in Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin, for Rounds 8 and 9 of the 2026 season. This weekend of racing features GT4-homologated race cars competing across three distinct classes at one of America's most respected road courses. The event brings together professional and amateur drivers in sprint-format competition on the challenging 4.048-mile circuit.

About the Race Format

GT4 America features a sprint format with two 60-minute races per event weekend. Each race requires two-driver teams to complete a mandatory mid-race pit stop and driver change. This adds a strategic element to the competition. SRO Motorsports America sanctions the series and oversees technical regulations, including the Balance of Performance (BoP) system. This system ensures competitive parity among different manufacturers. Pirelli serves as the exclusive tire supplier for the championship.

The series divides competitors into three classes based on driver ratings. The Pro-Am Cup pairs one professional driver with one amateur driver. The Silver Cup consists of two Silver-rated drivers, often emerging talents or experienced amateurs. The Am Cup features two amateur drivers exclusively. Each class uses color-coded number panels for easy identification: silver for Silver Cup, blue for Pro-Am, and yellow for Am Cup.

Road America Circuit

Road America has maintained much of its original configuration since opening in 1955. The circuit spans 640 acres of parkland and hosts over 400 events annually. The track measures 4.048 miles (6.515 km) and features 14 turns. Significant elevation changes define the layout, with a 160-foot drop from the start/finish line to the straight between Turn 11 and Turn 12.

Track Features

Turn 1 presents a fast right-hander at the end of the main straight. Speed management through this corner affects the entire lap. The Carousel, comprising Turns 9 and 10, forms a long, sweeping right-hand corner that demands patience and throttle control. Turn 11, known as The Kink, is a high-speed section that punishes mistakes. Canada Corner (Turn 12) provides a prime overtaking opportunity after a downhill run and heavy braking zone.

Drivers and fans appreciate the circuit for its challenging yet flowing layout. Fast straights connect with technical corners throughout the property. Natural viewing areas spread across the grounds allow spectators to explore and find various vantage points. The venue sits near the Kettle Moraine Scenic Drive and attracts over 800,000 visitors annually, generating more than $100 million for the region each year.

Competing Teams and Manufacturers

The GT4 America series attracts customer-focused teams campaigning GT4-homologated cars from multiple manufacturers. Common marques in the series include Aston Martin, Audi, BMW, Ford, McLaren, Mercedes-AMG, Porsche, and Toyota. Several teams have announced their participation in the 2026 season. BimmerWorld Racing will field entries in the championship. Precision Racing LA will compete with a Toyota GR Supra GT4. Blackdog Racing plans to return with a McLaren Artura GT4, with Tony Gaples and Michael Cooper as drivers. RS1 has Spencer Pumpelly and Luca Mars listed in a Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 RS Clubsport.

Technical Regulations

All cars competing in GT4 America adhere to SRO GT4 homologation standards. These regulations are established with the FIA and national sanctioning bodies. The standards aim to keep costs down and promote close racing by balancing performance across different car models. The Balance of Performance is a critical technical aspect. SRO Motorsports Group adjusts BoP to ensure no single car holds a significant advantage. Adjustments include engine power, vehicle weight, and aerodynamics. Driver ballast is another component of technical regulations. An average driver weight of 90 kg is set, and cars must carry ballast if their drivers' average weight falls below this threshold.

Series Background

The GT4 class made its North American racing debut as part of the Pirelli World Challenge in 2017. Road America hosted one of the inaugural events. The SRO Motorsports Group established the standalone GT4 America Series in 2019, building on the success and global standards of GT4 racing. Road America has been a consistent fixture on the GT4 America calendar since then.

The Venue

Civil engineer Cliff Tufte built Road America, and the circuit held its first SCCA national race weekend on September 10, 1955. The track's natural topography utilizes sweeping hills and ravines, contributing to its unique character. Road America has hosted nearly every major North American racing series throughout its history, including IndyCar, IMSA, NASCAR, and Trans-Am. The venue maintains an open seating policy, allowing spectators to explore the grounds freely. Traditional activities during major race weekends include the "Corvette Corral" and the pre-race parade into the nearby village of Elkhart Lake.