What's Happening?
IMSA President John Doonan revealed the entry lists for the 2026 WeatherTech SportsCar Championship and Endurance Cup during the annual State Of The Series conference at Road Atlanta. The championship will feature 45 entries across four categories, with 54 cars competing in the Michelin Endurance Cup rounds. Notably, Road America will replace Indianapolis in the 2026 schedule. The GTP class includes 11 cars from manufacturers such as Acura, BMW, Cadillac, Porsche, and Aston Martin. The LMP2 field remains strong with 12 cars from 11 teams, while the GTD PRO class features eight full-season entries. The GTD class boasts 14 full-season entries, with additional teams participating in the Endurance Cup.
Why It's Important?
The announcement of the 2026 entry lists is crucial for the sports car racing community, as it sets the stage for the upcoming season. The inclusion of new teams and the return of established ones highlights the competitive nature of the championship. The changes in the schedule, such as the addition of Road America, may impact team strategies and fan engagement. The diverse lineup of manufacturers and teams underscores IMSA's role in promoting high-quality sports car racing, attracting global attention and investment. The championship's structure provides opportunities for teams to showcase their capabilities, potentially influencing sponsorship and partnership decisions.