The GT Summer Series (GTSS) aims to make waves with a driver-specific BoP
Photo by: Gedlich Racing
The GT Summer Series is set to expand the European GT landscape in 2026, with organiser Gedlich Racing introducing a new championship specifically designed for amateur and gentleman drivers. Building on six years of experience gained through the Winter Series in Southern Europe, the concept now moves to a dedicated summer format based primarily in Germany.
The inaugural calendar features five events across a six-month period, structured to balance sporting ambition with financial sustainability. Rounds are scheduled at well-known German circuits alongside selected international venues, while a built-in summer break aims to provide teams with greater planning stability. The series will be part of the ADAC Racing Weekend package, integrating it into an established national platform.
Sporting regulations are where the GT Summer Series seeks to differentiate itself. While multiple GT categories are eligible – including GT3, GT2, GT4, Cup, Challenge and Lamborghini Super Trofeo machinery – the championship places a strong emphasis on the driver profile rather than outright performance. A driver-specific Balance of Performance will be applied, taking into account whether a competitor is an amateur or professional.
The GTSS is primarily aimed at amateur drivers and gentlemen drivers.
Photo: Gedlich Racing
Professional drivers are permitted to compete, but will face technical limitations designed to protect competitive balance. The intention is to give amateur racers greater freedom and realistic opportunities to fight at the front, rather than simply filling the midfield. According to series organisers, the approach is a direct response to increasing professionalisation across many GT championships.
Track time will be supplemented by official test sessions ahead of each race weekend, with additional test days offered between events. These measures are intended to help teams prepare more efficiently and reduce pressure during race weekends.
Off-track presentation also plays a significant role in the new concept. Gedlich Racing will introduce the Heroes Arena, a dedicated paddock area designed as the focal point for public-facing activities. Driver presentations, interviews and sponsor activations will take place there, offering teams more opportunities for visibility beyond the limited on-track sessions.
A "Heroes Arena" will be installed in the GT Summer Series paddock.
Photo: Gedlich Racing
All races will be broadcast live, supported by an expanded production setup and English-language commentary. Alongside the main broadcast, a new Fan Cam initiative will deliver informal behind-the-scenes coverage from the paddock, aimed primarily at digital and social media audiences. The goal is to provide closer access to teams, drivers and mechanics throughout the race weekend.
The GT Summer Series is scheduled to begin on 17–19 April 2026 at Hockenheim. Entries are now open, and the organiser expects a competitive grid for the debut season. To assist teams with financial planning, a dedicated budget planning tool will be provided, underlining the championship’s focus on transparency and long-term sustainability.
17–19 April 2026: Hockenheimring (Germany)
29-31 May 2026: Oschersleben (Germany)
25–28 June 2026: Nurburgring (Germany)
27–30 August 2026: Spa-Francorchamps (Belgium)
2–4 October 2026: Hockenheimring (Germany)
17 April 2026: Hockenheimring
28 May 2026: Oschersleben
14 July 2026: Nurburgring Sprint Circuit
15 July 2026: Red Bull Ring
16 July 2026: Oschersleben
18 August 2026: Nurburgring Grand Prix circuit
29–30 September 2026: Portimao
1 October 2026: Hockenheimring
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- The Autosport.com Team
Source: Autosport