Launch the ELMS 2026 season on a good footing

On the eve of the start of the 2026 European Le Mans Series season, the entire IDEC SPORT team is fully focused on the first event of the year of the European Le Mans Series championship.

A complete and relentless track Located just a few kilometers from Barcelona, the Catalan circuit is renowned for being one of the most comprehensive on the calendar. An alternating mix of fast corners, long curves, technical zones: everything is there to challenge both the drivers and engineers. Barcelona demands perfect control of driving and mechanical settings. Teams must find the right balance between top speed and grip while managing tire wear on a demanding surface. Traffic management, always dense in ELMS, will also be a determining factor on this track where overtaking can be complex.

After several months of preparation, this first round marks a highly anticipated return to competition. Barcelona is often seen as a true indicator of a car’s potential. “It’s a circuit where nothing can be left to chance. If the car performs well here, it’s generally a good sign for the rest of the season,” says a member of the technical team.

Interview with Franck Larue, Chief Engineer of #18 “How do you approach this first race of the season?” “I’m still discovering the team, so the goal is to adapt first and foremost. I am getting to know their way of working, and everything is going very well. The environment is pleasant, the car is performing well, and the team is strong. Honestly, everything is very positive at the moment.”

“What are the specifics of the Barcelona circuit?” “It is a very technical, abrasive, and physically demanding circuit. It is quite abrasive, so tire management will be essential, especially during the second relay. Temperature will also play an important role. But for now, rain is forecast on Sunday, whereas we have been driving all week on dry, sunny conditions with sometimes very hot temperatures.”

“How do you adapt to such a sudden weather change?” “There is obviously an element of experience. The team has a very good work foundation. We have also had the opportunity to drive in complicated conditions during tests at Spa, with rain and even snow. That should help us. And as it should not be very hot, it could work in our favor.”

“What will be the keys to the race in Barcelona?” “Traffic will be decisive. There are few overtaking opportunities, so it will be important to manage situations on track to progress effectively. Consistency as well. In ELMS, everything can be decided over the duration (4 hours), pit stops are also key points… You have to be clean from start to finish.”

“Does that make qualifications particularly important?” “Yes, clearly. A good qualification allows you to position yourself in the front, which is always an advantage. Even if the race lasts four hours and a lot can happen in ELMS, starting in front is still a significant advantage.”

“What are the goals for the season?” “The goal is simple: to be in front and score points in every race, essential for the championship. Then, it will be about giving our maximum with the means we have. We arrive with a lot of desire. Winter has been studious, we have worked on many details.”

“How would you describe your crew?” “It is a group that is both young and experienced. Laurents brings a lot thanks to his experience, which is very valuable. Jamie has already had a season behind her and has made a lot of progress. The three drivers share an excellent work philosophy, they are open-minded and collaborate very well together. As for Valerio, he is already showing interesting potential. He is calm and composed, which is promising for the future.”

More than just an opening race, this Spanish stage often sets the tone for the season. Performance, reliability, strategy: these are all elements that will allow IDEC SPORT to position themselves in the hierarchy from the start.

In a championship as competitive as the ELMS, every detail matters. And Barcelona, like other races of the season, will leave no room for improvisation. The race promises to be spectacular, with tight battles at the front and strategies that could make the difference.

The first free practice session will be held on Friday, April 10 at 11:50 am. The second free practice sessions are scheduled for Saturday morning at 10:10 am, before the qualification (4:20 pm for LMP2) to be followed live. The start of the 4 hours of Barcelona will be given on Sunday, April 12 at 12 pm. The race will be broadcast live and in full for free.