Genesis Steps Into the World of Endurance Racing
The motorsport world is buzzing — Genesis is officially entering endurance racing. After months of speculation, renders, and teasers, Hyundai Motor Company has now revealed real-world images of the upcoming Genesis GMR-001, the car that will carry the brand to the 24 Hours of Le Mans and beyond.
Shown in raw carbon fiber, the GMR-001 chassis is the first to be completed by the newly created Genesis Magma Racing division. The car has already undergone a shakedown test, proving that what started as a bold idea is now becoming reality.
“We seem to be passing milestones every day, but this is exactly what we must be doing,” said team principal Cyril Abiteboul, former Renault F1 boss and now the face of Genesis’ motorsport efforts. “After planning for and talking about these moments for the last eight months, to see a finished car running exactly as we planned is incredibly exciting.”
What’s the Plan for Genesis Magma Racing?
Genesis will enter the World Endurance Championship (WEC) in 2026, followed by the IMSA SportsCar Championship in 2027. The GMR-001 isn’t just about competing — it’s designed to win, while also carrying Genesis’ signature design philosophy of “Athletic Elegance.”
The car itself blends cutting-edge aerodynamics with Genesis DNA, sporting double-stacked headlights wrapped around the front corners and a signature double light bar at the rear — instantly recognizable design cues from the brand’s production lineup.
Racing Pedigree and Star Drivers
Genesis Magma Racing has confirmed an impressive driver lineup: endurance veteran André Lotterer will team up with Luis “Pipo” Derani, a proven name in endurance racing. In addition, Genesis plans to run an LMP2 European Le Mans Series team, creating a pathway to scout and develop new motorsport talent.
The LMDh Formula: A Smart Entry Point
Rather than joining the cost-heavy LMH class, Genesis has opted for the LMDh (Le Mans Daytona hybrid) category, which offers a balance of cost control and competitive potential.
- Shared Components: Monocoque, suspension, and hybrid systems are standardized, keeping costs in check.
- Manufacturer Freedom: Genesis is free to design its own internal combustion engine and exterior styling.
- Competitive Playing Field: Strict power limits and weight regulations ensure parity with rivals.
It’s the same formula followed by Porsche, BMW, Cadillac, and Alpine — which means Genesis is joining some of the fiercest competition in motorsport.
Hyundai’s Role in the Project
Interestingly, rumors once suggested that Hyundai N would enter endurance racing directly. Instead, Hyundai will provide technical and strategic support to Genesis. Team principal Cyril Abiteboul also serves as president of Hyundai Motorsport, ensuring a close link between the two brands.
Genesis will also collaborate with Oreca and IDEC Sport, both highly respected in prototype racing. The team will be based at Circuit Paul Ricard, alongside its technical partners.
“Hyundai Motorsport will play a vital role in this ambitious program,” said Abiteboul. “We are elevating our circuit racing expertise to a new level as we prepare to compete in some of the world’s most challenging series.”
Who Will Genesis Face at Le Mans?
The LMDh grid is stacked with legendary competitors. Genesis will be up against:
- Porsche 963
- BMW M Hybrid V8
- Cadillac V-Series.R
- Alpine A424
These are manufacturers with decades of racing pedigree. Genesis, as a newcomer, faces an uphill battle — but its combination of luxury brand prestige, Hyundai technical backing, and racing talent could make it a surprise contender.
Conclusion: A New Era for Genesis
The launch of the Genesis GMR-001 marks a bold step for the brand. Known for luxury sedans and SUVs, Genesis is now positioning itself as a true performance marque, blending Korean design philosophy with world-class motorsport engineering.
The road to Le Mans 2026 won’t be easy, but Genesis has shown that it’s serious, ambitious, and ready to challenge the established giants. Motorsport fans should get used to a new name in endurance racing: Genesis Magma Racing.
