The Spirit of Le Mans
For nearly 15 years, the European Le Mans Series has been the race series of choice for the top teams and drivers from around the globe wishing to compete at the world’s most famous race, the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
With six 4-hour races on Europe’s most technical and demanding circuits - Barcelona, Le Castellet, Imola, Spa-Francorchamps, Silverstone and Portimao - the ELMS is the perfect proving ground for any competitor wishing to take on the challenge of the next stage on the endurance ladder, the FIA World Endurance Championship, and the pinnacle of the sport, the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
In 2026, the ELMS grid will feature 47 cars across the four classes – 11 in LMP2, 12 in LMP2 Pro/Am, 10 in LMP3, and 14 in LMGT3 - with the ultimate prize of an automatic invitation to Le Mans on offer for the very best teams in each category – LMP2 champion and runner up; LMP2 Pro/Am, LMP3 and LMGT3 champions will receive an automatic invitation to the 24 Hours of Le Mans at the end of the season.
The European Le Mans Series attracts drivers from all walks of life from drivers who have competed and won at the very top of motorsport, including Formula One and the WEC, the next generation of star drivers, and the gentlemen (bronze) drivers who want to take on the challenge of competing against the very best.
Affiliated to the Automobile Club de l'Ouest (ACO), competitors taking part in the ELMS are guaranteed a series that has a strict set of rules to ensure a level playing field for all. The friendly and welcoming paddock embodies the professionalism that surrounds top level endurance racing, with open access for the thousands of fans to get up close and enjoy the sport.
