Valentino Rossi returns to the GT World Challenge after leaving the WEC

After two seasons in the World Endurance Championship, Valentino Rossi is preparing to return to his first experience in motorsport. The Italian, however, is continuing his adventure with BMW.

Published 15/01/2026 à 09:51

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Valentino Rossi returns to the GT World Challenge after leaving the WEC

Valentino Rossi en WECIt's truly over. Despite a consistent second half of the 2025 season, notably marked by podium finishes in São Paulo and Austin, the nine-time world champion of MotoGP who had begun his career transition in 2022 will not continue in this championship.

On the sidelines of the VR46 event organized this Wednesday, January 14, the Italian indeed announced his choice for the 2026 season. "I will be participating in the GT World Challenge and I am very happy about it because it's a championship I really enjoy and in which I participated at the beginning of my motorsport career."

Rossi extends his adventure with BMW

Quick to elaborate on his decision, Valentino Rossi emphasized the personal nature of remaining in Europe throughout the coming year.“I participated in the World Championship for the past two years, but I decided to switch because the GTWC takes place in Europe and the races are closer, whereas with the WEC, most of the events are held outside of Europe, which involves a lot of flying and long journeys.” he explained. With two little girls and a family, it's difficult to be away for so many days, so let's just say it was a choice I had to make, but I'm really happy because the GTWC is a lot of fun.

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Similarly, it seems that the person concerned was in control of this decision, judging by his justification. "The choice was mine, in agreement with BMW, with whom I signed a three-year contract extension. I also had to decide how to proceed with them, but I'm very happy because I feel good in this championship."

Now under contract with BMW for the medium term, Valentino Rossi seems to be keeping all his options open beyond 2026 should he achieve good results in the GT World Challenge. In the meantime, ten rounds await the Italian rider, starting with the opening round at the Paul Ricard circuit.