McLaren has discontinued their GT4 program to focus on their McLaren Trophy and I have all the details in this week’s Racecraft & Race Cars Roundup. I also have my usual selection of racecraft tips, racing series news and more.
Racecraft Tips & Techniques
The Real Secret to Faster Laps
Speed Secrets: Why Do You Make Those Mistakes?
The first step in making an improvement in anything is fully understanding what’s in the way—the WHY behind what’s holding you back from taking your driving to the next level, perhaps. Ross Bentley of Speed Secrets looks at why you make the mistakes that you do.
You can hear more form Ross in his recent appearance on the Motorsport Prospects Podcast here.
Race Car & Series Developments
McLaren to Discontinue GT4 Program By 2028
McLaren Automotive will discontinue its customer program in GT4 by the end of 2028 according to its new motorsport boss Giorgio Sanna, who said the focus on its GT activities will be on GT3 and the growth of its single-make McLaren Trophy.
“Sanna explained the British manufacturer wants to funnel its customers through the McLaren Trophy series in America, Europe and a future championship in Asia-Pacific, instead.”
Porsche Sprint Challenge Central Europe 2026 Calendar Released
The Porsche Sprint Challenge Central Europe has published their 2026 calendar with 6 rounds taking place in 6 different countries. You can see the calendar here.
Why Racer Randy Pobst Keeps Coming Back to Budget Endurance Racing
Randy Probst explains in this Grassroots Motorsports post why he keeps coming back to budget endurance racing. “I had factory race driving contracts with Porsche, Audi, Mazda and Volvo. Won twice at the Rolex 24 At Daytona. Almost 100 pro road racing wins. Now I do Lucky Dog, ChampCar, Lemons. Why? Because racing is in my blood, and budget endurance racing is accessible.”
Summer Fuji Round Set to Drop Sprint Format
SUPER GT looks set to axe the double sprint race format used in last year’s fourth round of the season at Fuji Speedway for the upcoming season. Read more at Sportscar365.
“Heroes Arena”: The Bold New Plan to Save GT Amateur Racing
Alongside a radical BoP system, the upcoming GT Summer Series 2026 is rethinking the paddock experience. Organizer Markus Gedlich explains to Autosport the “Heroes Arena” concept designed to celebrate amateur drivers and teams.
“In most racing series, we see that the public appreciation for everyone involved in motorsport falls far short of what it should be. Whether drivers, mechanics, assistants, wives, or team bosses – every single person does a job that is characterized by passion and dedication far beyond the norm. For us, these are the true heroes of motorsport. To showcase them appropriately, we have created the Heroes Arena, a designated outdoor area right next to our race office, where the focus will be on these heroes of motorsport throughout the day.”
Inside the SCCA: A New Home for the Runoffs
The SCCA National Championship Runoffs are officially getting a new home — and it’s a historic one. In this special breaking news episode of Inside the SCCA, Brian Bielanski is joined by SCCA’s Eric Prill to announce that the 2027 and 2028 Runoffs will return to Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta. This marks a homecoming for the Runoffs, which spent 24 legendary years at Road Atlanta, the era that defined SCCA championship racing.
Porsche Carrera World Cup Canceled
Porsche’s planned Carrera World Cup has been canceled, with the German manufacturer citing “economic and geopolitical challenges” that led to an insufficient number of entries.
Doonan Remains Upbeat on “Vision” for 2030 Common Regs
IMSA President John Doonan said he’s still hopeful of a common set of top-class technical regulations for 2030 but admitted “we’ve got a lot of work to do” with the “devil in the details.”
Big Grid for UAE4 Series & FR Middle East
Gulf Motorsport Business reports on the large grid numbers in both the UAE4 series as well as Formula Regional Middle East. “With four rounds taking place over a four-week period from 16 January, UAEF4 has attracted rising stars, established junior teams and Formula 1 driver programmes. The Top Speed-operated series features local interest as well, with Abu Dhabi’s Yas Heat Racing Academy entering four cars for Emirates-based drivers, including Dubai’s Adam Al Azhari. Meanwhile, the Formula Regional Middle East Trophy boasted a 32-driver entry for its season opener, which featured a world debut for the new Tatuus T-326 FIA Formula Regional car. Like UAEF4, the grid featured renowned Formula 3 and Formula 2 teams, famed for finding future Grand Prix stars.”
RallyCross National Championship Heads West for 2026, Divisional Challenge Brings Feisty Thrills
The SCCA RallyCross National Championship is set to head west for 2026, promising new challenges and high-octane excitement for competitors and fans alike. This move brings the thrill of RallyCross to a fresh setting, paired with the Divisional Challenge—a spirited event series designed to showcase regional talent and fiery competition.
Discover where the championship is headed and what makes the 2026 season so special in the full article here: RallyCross National Championship Heads West for 2026: Divisional Challenge Brings Feisty Thrills
From the Sim Racing Roundup
Max Verstappen Says Sim Racing Shapes Future Talent
Max Verstappen says that sim racing will shape future racing talent, and David Cook from Racing Prodigy agrees. Find out why in last week’s edition of the Sim Racing Roundup. I also have advice on setting up a sim rig in a small room with a small budget and much more!
Track Days
Lamborghini Arena Returns in 2026 for its Second Edition
Over the weekend of 9 to 10 May 2026, Automobili Lamborghini brings Lamborghini Arena back to the Imola Circuit, transforming the track into a meeting point for performance, brand culture and shared passion. The event is designed for Lamborghini super sports car owners, who will be able to take part with their own cars, as well as for all enthusiasts wishing to immerse themselves in the world of the Sant’Agata Bolognese marque for two full days.
The 2026 edition follows the success of the inaugural Lamborghini Arena which, in 2024, welcomed over 6,000 participants; around 380 cars on display; and a parade of more than 350 Lamborghinis that took to the Imola circuit, delivering a truly unique spectacle for all involved.
Full details can be found here.
Gumball 3000 Celebrates its 27th Annual Rally
Gumball 3000 is celebrating its 27th Annual Rally with a spectacular route from MIAMI to MEXICO CITY…the ‘Road to the World Cup’. (04 – 11 June, 2026). “International superstars and supercars will come together once again to participate in our 3,000 mile road trip of a lifetime across just 7 days. Starting from Miami at Hard Rock’s iconic Guitar Hotel, the route crosses the finish line in Mexico City, where Gumballers will receive a ticket to the Opening Match of FIFA World Cup 26™ taking place at Estadio Azteca on June 11, 2026.”
Racing & Testing Opportunities
Opportunity for Female Race Drivers
Two endurance racing seats are currently available for female drivers through the Racing for Women initiative, in partnership with L’Écurie Française. This project is designed to create genuine career pathways toward the highest levels of motorsport.
Get more details here.
Winfield Racing Team Looking for Drivers in the Hoosier Formula Cup
The Winfield Racing Team is racing in the Hoosier Formula Cup and they are looking for drivers. “No more “what ifs”. Here, you gain exposure, build your network, and develop the skills that turns drivers into champions. Every member drives each other forward. We push you beyond your limits, challenge your potential, and ensure you reach your goals.” More details can be found here.