Team WRT will defend its Sprint Cup and overall drivers’ crowns in the 2026 GT World Challenge (GTWC) Europe season with an unchanged pairing of Charles Weerts and Kelvin van der Linde. The duo will once again spearhead the Belgian squad’s Pro campaign, while newly appointed BMW factory driver Jordan Pepper strengthens the line-up for Endurance duties.
Weerts and Van der Linde delivered a sensational 2025 season. They secured the Sprint Cup crown with victory at Valencia and sealed the overall GT World drivers’ title with a measured sixth-place finish at Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya. Their consistency and pace placed them at the forefront of the championship fight from start to finish.
Team WRT maintain Sprint stability in 2026 GTWC Europe as Weerts eyes fifth crown as Pepper joins Endurance title charge
Team WRT will retain the same Sprint pairing in its #32 BMW. Weerts will aim to secure a remarkable fifth Sprint title, while Van der Linde will look to build on the first series crown of his career. The established partnership has developed into one of the most formidable combinations on the grid, blending Weerts’ experience with Van der Linde’s relentless speed.
Their continuity provides WRT with a strong platform as rivals reshuffle their own driver rosters ahead of the new campaign.
In Endurance, Weerts and Van der Linde will join forces with Pepper as WRT pursues its first drivers’ title in the long-distance format since 2014. Pepper arrives as part of BMW’s factory roster and brings winning pedigree to the Belgian squad.
The South African switches from Grasser Racing Team, where he triumphed in last season’s CrowdStrike 24 Hours of Spa. His addition gives WRT extra firepower in marquee endurance events and strengthens its overall championship ambitions.
Second Pro entry anchored by Rossi
WRT has also confirmed its second full-season Pro entry, the #46 BMW. Valentino Rossi and Max Hesse will contest all 10 rounds together, while Dan Harper will complete the trio for Endurance races.
This expanded Pro assault underlines BMW’s confidence in WRT as its flagship GT programme and signals the team’s determination to challenge across both Sprint and Endurance championships.
2026 GTWC Europe season begins at Paul Ricard with Team WRT yet to confirm additional entries
The 2026 season will commence at Circuit Paul Ricard on 11/12 April, following the official Prologue. The opening Sprint Cup round will take place at Brands Hatch on 2/3 May.
Team WRT expects to confirm additional entries before the curtain rises. With its champion pairing intact and fresh factory strength added to its ranks, the Belgian powerhouse stands poised to defend its titles and extend its legacy in GT competition.
