McLaren Trophy Europe to Race at Le Mans; GT3, GT4 Invites

Photo: McLaren

McLaren has confirmed that its Trophy Europe series will join the support bill at next year’s 24 Hours of Le Mans, coinciding with the race debut of the McLaren MCL-HY Hypercar.

The 2027 event will mark McLaren’s return to the top class in the French endurance classic since competing in GT1 with the legendary McLaren F1 GTR, which won the 1995 edition of the race outright on its debut.

The McLaren Trophy Europe support races will also allow drivers from McLaren Trophy America to compete as guest entries, alongside teams running current McLaren 720S GT3 Evo and McLaren Artura GT4 cars.

It’s anticipated that the multi-class format will make the event the largest gathering of McLaren GT race cars assembled in competition.

“To have McLaren Trophy Europe racing at Le Mans in 2027, the year we make our debut in the Hypercar class, will make the event incredibly special,” said McLaren Automotive CEO Nick Collins.

“The fact that it will also be an invitational race for our GT3 and GT4 clients, as well as open to our McLaren Trophy America competitors, will mark this out as a true celebration of McLaren. What better place than Le Mans – part of our Triple Crown legacy – to recognize this.”

ACO President Pierre Fillon added: “Welcoming McLaren Trophy Europe to Le Mans in 2027 will add another strong dimension to what is already shaping up to be a very special edition of the 24 Hours of Le Mans.

“McLaren is part of the history of our race, and its return to the top class with the MCL-HY is a powerful symbol of the momentum currently driving endurance racing.

“Bringing together Hypercar, GT3, GT4 and McLaren Trophy competitors during the same week will create a unique celebration for the brand, its customers and the fans. Le Mans has always been a place where heritage and the future meet, and this announcement perfectly reflects that spirit.”

The full 2027 McLaren Trophy Europe schedule has yet to be released although the Le Mans rounds are earmarked as Rounds 3 and 4 of the season.

John Dagys

John Dagys is the founder and Editor-in-Chief of Sportscar365. Dagys spent eight years as a motorsports correspondent for FOXSports.com and SPEED Channel and has contributed to numerous other motorsports publications worldwide. Contact John