The 2026 Fanatec GT World Challenge Europe Powered by AWS Endurance Cup officially kicked off this past weekend. On April 11, the grid descended upon France’s famous Circuit Paul Ricard for a grueling 6 hour endurance racing battle that raced straight into the midnight darkness. Debuting a striking new red and white livery on their upgraded BMW M4 GT3 EVOs, ROWE Racing delivers a tactical masterclass, turning a challenging qualifying day into a stellar championship points haul and a class podium finish.
From 22nd to 6th: The #98 Pro Crew's Insane Recovery
The weekend presents its hurdles. During a hyper competitive qualifying session, the #98 BMW M4 GT3 EVO finds itself mired back on the grid, starting the 6 hour marathon from a distant 22nd position. However, endurance racing is won over hours, not laps. The world class factory trio of Augusto Farfus, Jake Dennis, and Raffaele Marciello initiates a relentless charge through the 59 car field. Navigating heavy multi class traffic and managing tyre wear on the abrasive French circuit, they execute lightning fast pit stops to slice through the pack. As the checkered flag flies at midnight, the #98 car crosses the line in a phenomenal 6th place overall.
Instant Hardware: Gold Cup Podium for the #998 Trio
ROWE Racing’s second entry, the #998 BMW M4 GT3 EVO competing in the Gold Cup class, puts on a clinic in consistency. The driver lineup of Tim Tramnitz, Jens Klingmann, and Ugo de Wilde keeps their noses clean through a highly aggressive opening stint. They execute their race strategy flawlessly as track conditions cool down in the evening, pushing the EVO package to its absolute limit. In a display of tactical poise, the young guns hold off fierce rival challenges to claim a brilliant 3rd place finish in the Gold Cup class, securing a trophy in the very first round of the season.
The Road Ahead
With a top 6 overall finish and a Gold Cup trophy in the bag, ROWE Racing leaves Le Castellet with immense momentum and a perfect foundation for the season. The team proves that their off season preparation particularly with the new aero and cooling configurations on the BMW M4 GT3 EVO pays off immensely. The team now sets its sights firmly on the championship title.
Official Race Results : Click here for full classification
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