The 2025 FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) entry list is finally here, featuring a balanced 36-car grid evenly split between 18 Hypercars and 18 LMGT3 machines. Despite an increased cap of 40 cars, the field remains consistent with last season due to notable withdrawals and reshuffles. The season kicks off on February 28 with the Qatar 1812km, marking the return of endurance racing’s elite.
Hypercar: Eight Manufacturers Lead the Charge
The Hypercar category is packed with powerhouse manufacturers, all adhering to the newly implemented two-car rule for factory teams. Highlights include:
- Aston Martin THOR Team debuts its much-anticipated Valkyrie AMR-LMH, powered by a ferocious naturally aspirated V12 engine. Fans can look forward to its screaming debut in Qatar.
- Cadillac Hertz Team JOTA transitions from Porsche to Cadillac with its V-Series.Rs, helmed by drivers Alex Lynn and Earl Bamber in cars No. 12 and No. 38. This move follows a split between GM and Chip Ganassi Racing.
- Toyota GAZOO Racing, Porsche Penske Motorsport, Ferrari AF Corse, Peugeot TotalEnergies, BMW Team WRT, and Alpine Endurance Team remain strong contenders, ensuring a competitive fight for supremacy.
Privateer Entries Dwindle
Just two privateer teams remain in Hypercar:
- Proton Competition with its No. 99 Porsche 963.
- AF Corse running a No. 83 Ferrari 499P.
These entries highlight the growing dominance of factory-backed operations in the top tier of endurance racing.
LMGT3: Shifts in the Midfield
The LMGT3 class sees minor shakeups but maintains its 18-car grid for the second consecutive year. The lineup includes eight returning manufacturers and one significant addition:
- Mercedes-AMG joins the fray, replacing Lamborghini after the Iron Lynx team pivoted to the German marque.
- Iron Dames also transitions from Lamborghini to Porsche, partnering with Manthey 1st Phorm for the 2025 season.
- Aston Martin sees a team shift as Racing Spirit of Léman steps in for D’Station Racing, running alongside Heart of Racing.
Returning manufacturers like Porsche, BMW, Ferrari, Lexus, Corvette, McLaren, and Ford will be represented by stable, seasoned teams, including:
- WRT (BMW)
- Vista AF Corse (Ferrari)
- AKKODIS ASP (Lexus)
- TF Sport (Corvette)
- United Autosports (McLaren)
- Proton Competition (Ford)
Big Departures and Missed Opportunities
The field reflects notable absences:
- Lamborghini’s withdrawal ends the SC63 program after just one season.
- Pure Rxcing, 2024’s defending champions, also steps away, signaling potential challenges for stability in the GT3 category.
What’s at Stake for 2025?
The revamped grid promises intense competition as manufacturers double down on factory-backed efforts. The debut of the Aston Martin Valkyrie AMR-LMH and Cadillac’s expanded presence signal a thrilling new chapter in Hypercar, while LMGT3 retains its diversity and competitive depth.
With the season opener in Qatar fast approaching, all eyes are on the WEC grid as teams finalize preparations for what promises to be another blockbuster year of endurance racing.
