P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Valentino Rossi’s GT World Challenge schedule and team-mates revealed
Valentino Rossi’s full GT World Challenge Europe program for 2026, along with his team-mates, has been officially disclosed. The nine-time grand prix motorcycle world champion transitioned to car racing exclusively post his retirement from MotoGP in 2021. Rossi teamed up with Belgian outfit WRT for his first GTWCE campaign in 2022 and participated in full seasons in 2023 and 2024, balancing WEC racing in the latter year. In 2025, Rossi reduced his GTWCE duties to focus on WEC but did continue with wildcard entries in GT racing. Recently, Rossi confirmed his return to GTWCE after BMW decided he won’t compete in WEC this year and also extended his contract with BMW for another three years. Racing alongside Max Hesse and Dan Harper, Rossi will drive the No.46 WRT BMW for the 2026 GTWCE season, with Sprint Cup events scheduled at Brands Hatch, Misano, Magny-Cours, Zandvoort, and Barcelona. In the Endurance Cup, Rossi and Hesse will be joined by Harper at Paul Ricard, the Nuburgring, Portimao, and the 24 Hours of Spa. Additionally, Rossi will participate in the Bathurst 12 Hours with WRT, aiming to build on his previous successes in GT racing, particularly in the GTWCE.
