As reported by Sportscar365, KCMG has strengthened its line-up for the second round of the 2026 Nürburgring Endurance Series (NLS) by confirming Sho Tsuboi and Nirei Fukuzumi. The pair will join David Pittard and Jesse Krohn in the team’s No. 47 Mercedes-AMG GT3 Evo for NLS2. Importantly, this outing marks their first appearance in top-class GT3 machinery at the legendary Nürburgring Nordschleife.
From GT4 to GT3: A step up
Both drivers already hold experience at the Nürburgring, having debuted there in GT4 machinery last year. However, this weekend represents a significant step forward as they transition into the highly competitive GT3 category.
Tsuboi, a multiple champion in SUPER GT, secured his Nürburgring A-permit during appearances in NLS7 and NLS8. On those occasions, he piloted a Toyota GR Supra GT4 Evo run by KCMG.
Subsequently, Fukuzumi followed a similar path by earning his licence during NLS9, further strengthening the team’s pool of Nürburgring-qualified drivers.
Tsuboi targets experience in GT3 machinery as Fukuzumi embraces new challenge with KCMG in 2026 NLS
Looking ahead to the event, Tsuboi emphasised the importance of learning and building experience
“This will be my second time at this iconic track, and my maiden appearance in GT3 machinery there, so I think it’ll be a brilliant opportunity to gain valuable experience,” said Tsuboi. “I’m really looking forward to racing in such a great environment with KCMG. I want to understand what driving the Mercedes-AMG GT3 at the Nürburgring feels like and steadily build up my mileage during the race.”
Similarly, Fukuzumi highlighted both the challenge and opportunity presented by the weekend.
“I’m very happy to have this opportunity to race with KCMG in NLS. It will be my first time driving the Mercedes-AMG GT3, having only competed at the Nürburgring once before, so there is still a lot for me to discover. I’ve got some experienced teammates to learn from and I’m looking forward to enjoying this opportunity with the team.”
Positive early signs for KCMG ahead of 2026 NLS campaign
Although KCMG did not formally compete in the opening round, NLS1, due to its cancellation following adverse weather, the team still gathered useful data during Friday practice. Team owner Paul Ip expressed confidence in the progress made so far.
“We came away from the NLS1 Friday session with a very positive feeling. The team established a solid understanding of the Mercedes-AMG GT3, and the drivers’ feedback was extremely encouraging.
“We’re also very happy to welcome Sho Tsuboi to the KCMG family and to start a new chapter at the Nürburgring, alongside Nirei Fukuzumi following our collaboration in Super Formula. NLS2 is another important step as we focus on learning, building mileage, and preparing for the Nürburgring 24 Hours, while continuing to improve our competitiveness.”
Building towards the Nürburgring 24 Hours
With a strong driver line-up and encouraging early feedback, KCMG approaches NLS2 as a crucial step in its broader endurance racing programme. The team will focus on accumulating mileage, refining performance, and preparing for the ultimate challenge—the Nürburgring 24 Hours.
As a result, this weekend not only marks a debut for Tsuboi and Fukuzumi in GT3 at the Nordschleife, but also a key milestone in KCMG’s long-term ambitions.
