2024 FIA GT World Cup Unites Stars in GT3 Sprint Race

The anticipated 2024 FIA GT World Cup is set to take place from November 14-17, coinciding with the prestigious Macau Grand Prix. This marks the seventh edition of the event, and it promises to be an exceptional gathering showcasing the best in GT3 racing. A total of 23 cars from six competing manufacturers will converge on the iconic Guia Circuit, with a staggering 70% of the entrants comprising Platinum-ranked drivers.

A Star-Studded Entry List

This year’s entry list features past winners and notable drivers from the FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC), making it a thrilling contest for motorsport enthusiasts. Every champion from the event’s inception in 2015 will be present, alongside 10 drivers who have actively participated in WEC races this year, including eight from the Hypercar class.

Reigning champion Raffaele Marciello, the only driver to have secured victories in the FIA GT World Cup twice, is aiming for a historical third triumph. The talented driver will transition from Mercedes-AMG to BMW, a move that positions him within BMW’s ambitious FIA WEC Hypercar class effort. Given his familiarity with the Bavarian machinery from competing in the GT World Challenge Europe, his adaptation should be seamless.

Manufacturer Showdown

BMW enters this high-stakes competition with a formidable four-car lineup featuring Marciello, his WEC teammates Sheldon Van der Linde and Dries Vanthoor, and veteran driver Augusto Farfus, who played a key role in developing the M4 GT3. Farfus, alongside Marciello, also holds the distinction of being a past FIA GT World Cup champion with a notable win in 2018.

On the other hand, Lamborghini returns to Macau for the first time since 2017, bringing on board Edoardo Mortara, the most decorated driver at the Guia Circuit, with seven total victories. His considerable experience, combined with the talents of Matteo Cairoli and Luca Engstler, makes Lamborghini a competitive force this year.

Ferrari’s ambition is evident as well, expanding their effort to three cars in hopes of clinching their first FIA GT World Cup title. With experienced factory driver Daniel Serra and two rising stars, this squad is poised to challenge for the top spot in the series.

Porsche, with an impressive five-car lineup led by current WEC Hypercar Drivers’ Championship leader Laurens Vanthoor, blends seasoned talent with a mix of youth, represented by Laurin Heinrich, Thomas Preining, Alessio Picariello, and Leo Hongli Ye.

Not to be overlooked, Mercedes-AMG also fields a competitive presence with accomplished drivers like Maro Engel, who won the inaugural FIA GT World Cup in 2015, and the experienced Jules Gounon and Daniel Juncadella.

Audi seeks to reclaim glory with a robust lineup, featuring Christopher Haase and Ricardo Feller, aiming for their first victory since 2016.

Competition Format

The event comprises two 30-minute practice sessions, followed by a single qualifying session of equivalent length. Races will unfold with a 12-lap qualifying race, culminating in a decisive 16-lap main event. This year’s edition promises intense competition and spectacular racecraft in the tightly contested environment of Macau.

Fans will have the opportunity to catch every thrilling moment of the FIA GT World Cup, along with the co-headlining FIA FR World Cup, through extensive live streaming on the FIA’s official YouTube channel.

Interview Segment with Raffaele Marciello

Today, we are excited to host Raffaele Marciello, the reigning champion of the FIA GT World Cup. Raffaele, thank you for joining us as we delve into the upcoming event.

Q1: Raffaele, you are transitioning from Mercedes-AMG to BMW for this year’s FIA GT World Cup. What are your thoughts on this switch, and how do you feel about competing in a new car?

Raffaele: Thank you for having me! Transitioning to BMW has been pivotal for my career. While I’ve enjoyed great success with Mercedes-AMG, BMW offers a fresh challenge that I am excited about. I’ve spent considerable time testing and familiarizing myself with the M4 GT3, and I feel confident about our chances this year.

Q2: The field is incredibly competitive this year with past winners and highly ranked drivers. How do you plan to tackle the intensity of the competition in Macau?

Raffaele: Indeed, the competition is fierce, and every driver on the grid has the talent to win. The key for me will be to stay focused and execute our strategy effectively during practice and qualifying. Securing a good grid position is essential on such a challenging circuit.

Q3: What does it mean to you to potentially win a third FIA GT World Cup title, especially with it being held in such a renowned venue?

Raffaele: Winning a third title would be monumental not just for my career, but also for BMW’s reputation in motorsport. Macau is a legendary circuit, with its tight corners and unpredictable conditions, making it a true test of skill and endurance. I believe that this race holds a special kind of magic, and achieving that victory here would be a dream come true.

Engage with Readers

What are your thoughts on the upcoming FIA GT World Cup and its prestigious entry list? Will Raffaele secure his third title, or do you believe another driver will emerge triumphant this year? Join the conversation in the comments below!