New Michelin Hypercar/GTP Tires Delayed to 2026

Michelin has taken the decision to delay the introduction of new tires intended for use in the respective top classes of the FIA World Endurance Championship and IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship until 2026.

The French manufacturer had been working on new products that were intended to make their race debut in 2025, and held a test last week at the Circuit of The Americas that was attended by the majority of Hypercar/GTP manufacturers.

However, owing to there having been fewer opportunities to test the new tires than expected, Michelin has made the decision in conjunction with WEC rule makers the FIA and ACO, as well as IMSA, to push back their introduction by a year.

A statement released by Michelin said this choice was made in order not to disturb the Balance of Performance process in both championships by introducing new tires after the season had already started.

The new tires are now set to appear for the first time in race conditions at the Rolex 24 at Daytona in January 2026.

“Michelin is currently developing its new range of Michelin Pilot Sport tires for endurance racing,” explained Michelin endurance racing program manager Pierre Alves.

“The aim of this future range is to improve warm up, particularly on harder compounds, while improving consistency and durability. The new tires will also contain more renewable and recycled materials.

“Initially scheduled for introduction next season, the new range will finally hit the track in 2026.

“In agreement with all its partners and the sporting authorities, Michelin has decided to take more time, as there have been fewer test opportunities this year than expected.

“The current Michelin Pilot Sport Endurance range is perfectly suited to the requirements of the FIA WEC and IMSA WeatherTech Sports Car Championship grids and has already been integrated into the BoP process. So, we’re going to continue with it in 2025.”