Lema Racing is preparing to make its debut in the 2026 GTC Endurance Challenge. The Slovenian squad will compete in the new endurance series promoted by Mauricio Slaviero, fielding a Mercedes-AMG GT4. This marks a further step in a journey that began in the 1990s with touring cars and progressively shifted towards the GT world.
In recent years, the team has consolidated its programme around the Mercedes-AMG GT4 platform, first in Italy and then in the Iberian Supercars Series, before making the continental leap in 2025 by entering the GT4 European Series. An experience that has firmly established Slovenian motorsport on the European stage.
The technical expertise accumulated over the years will now prove crucial in tackling the new challenge organised by RIZA International. The format features two 55-minute race stages, with a driver change at mid-distance—a formula that combines strategy, traffic management and mechanical reliability.
The technical choice falls on the Mercedes-AMG GT4, derived from the road-going “GT R” version but equipped with a competition-specific aerodynamic package. Unveiled at the 24 Hours of Spa in 2017 and immediately deployed in the German VLN championship, the car has built a strong endurance reputation over time, further enhanced by updates introduced from 2022 onwards. Today, it represents a mature and well-established platform.
Alongside its sporting commitment, Lema Racing continues to invest in the development of young drivers. With this in mind, the team is evaluating the addition of a second car for the 2026 GTC Endurance Challenge season, aiming to expand its driver development programme on an international stage. The 2025 season has already delivered significant results, with two titles secured in XGT4 Italy and the GT Cup Endurance. A campaign that strengthened the credibility of the Slovenian outfit and now opens the door to a new challenge.
The GTC Endurance Challenge calendar will also feature the Misano World Circuit, a venue where the team achieved its best European result to date with an overall fifth-place finish. The debut in the new series is scheduled for April 19 at the Vallelunga Circuit, during the season’s opening round.
