The Autodromo Enzo e Dino Ferrari is set to host the European Le Mans Series, the European endurance racing championship that showcases the stars of tomorrow, featuring rising talents, team leaders, and top-level racing action.
The Spirit of Le Mans. That’s the core philosophy behind the entire European Le Mans Series operation. For over a decade, ELMS has been a key fixture in the endurance racing scene. With 44 cars entered this season, the on-track action is always thrilling. Often considered the “little sister” of the FIA World Endurance Championship, the ELMS plays a crucial role. Preparing future stars of the global stage by taking teams and drivers to some of the most iconic tracks in Europe – from Spa-Francorchamps to Imola, including the legendary Le Mans circuit.
Three categories of cars take to the track: LMP2 (including its PRO-AM subclass), LMP3, and the newly introduced LMGT3, a true paradise for fans of covered wheels racing. The premier class is LMP2, which once starred in the WEC and now finds its main spotlight in the ELMS (though it also appears in the Asian Le Mans Series at different times of year). Each race lasts four hours, with three drivers per car rotating behind the wheel. Every detail, from pit stops to race strategy and pace, is absolutely crucial. Therefore, surprises are part of the game: more than once, a team has come from the back of the grid to snatch victory.
Le Mans: from dream to reality
As an affiliate of the Automobile Club de l’Ouest and the WEC, the ELMS offers teams one of the most coveted rewards in motorsport. An invitation to the 24 Hours of Le Mans for each class champion at the end of the season. Competing in the ELMS is not just about winning individual races. It’s also a springboard to “the race of all races”, the dream of every endurance driver. Many of this season’s crews already competed in the most recent 24 Hours of Le Mans, including several who will be on track at Imola. Notably, Inter Europol Competition’s LMP2 entry returns fresh off a stunning win at the Circuit de La Sarthe.
Who’s been the fastest
Currently leading the overall standings is the IDEC Sport crew, Jamie Chadwick, Mathys Jaubert, and Daniel Juncadella. After back-to-back wins in the season openers at Barcelona and Le Castellet, they sit atop the LMP2 class with 50 points. In LMP3, CLX Racing has been dominant, with Paul Lanchère, Adrien Closmenil, and Theodor Jensen consistently among the fastest in both qualifying and races. In LMGT3, the spotlight shines on the Iron Dames, with their Porsche 992 GT3 driven by Celia Martin, Sarah Bovy, and Michelle Gatting.
This weekend, the European Le Mans Series heads to Imola for Round 3 of the season. If past editions have taught us anything, it’s that this is a race not to miss. The Santerno circuit is technical, fast, and narrow, a true test of skill, especially during lapping phases. Tickets are still available at accessible prices, giving fans a chance to experience a world-class event up close. Spectators can enjoy the race from the grandstands, access the paddock, join the pit walk and grid walk, meet the drivers, and see the cars up close: a unique experience for any motorsport enthusiast.
