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The World Endurance Championship (WEC) has firmly set its calendar for 2026, opting to maintain the current schedule of eight races instead of expanding it. Series manager Frederic Lequien emphasized the importance of stability and consistency in this decision.
“I have reiterated the need for a stable calendar,” Lequien stated in a recent interview with Autosport. “For the upcoming year, we will continue with eight races.”
In previous discussions, Lequien had expressed ambitions to return to the peak of nine races experienced between 2015 and 2017 and even hinted at the prospect of reaching ten events. However, these ideas are currently on hold as the WEC aims to reinforce its foundation following a challenging period.
The championship previously reduced its schedule to six races due to the financial implications of the COVID-19 pandemic. The insistence on stability suggests that the WEC is likely to revisit the same venues and timing as the present season.
This approach implies that Silverstone, which has made clear its intention to rejoin the WEC calendar, will not be included in the schedule. The British track had earlier announced its inclusion in the European Le Mans Series, further indicating its ongoing relationships with major endurance racing events.
Stuart Pringle, managing director of Silverstone, has been in conversations with the Automobile Club de l’Ouest regarding the possibility of hosting a championship race again. Silverstone was part of the WEC from the series’ revival in 2012 until it fell off the calendar in 2019, when the WEC adjusted its format due to the pandemic.
Lequien expressed optimism about the upcoming British ELMS round scheduled for September 14, noting a strong interest in endurance racing within the UK and at Silverstone. This positivity reflects the ongoing efforts to strengthen the sport’s presence and engage fans in Britain.
Historically, the WEC has found success with eight races following its revival until the Nurburgring was added in 2015, driven by the influence of competing manufacturers like Porsche and Audi. A transition to a winter-series format took place during the 2018/19 superseason, ultimately curtailed by the impact of the pandemic. After a couple of years with six races, the series expanded to seven in 2023, and expectations are set for eight races over the next two seasons.
Source
www.autosport.com