Team WRT delivered a stunning performance at Imola, as Anthony McIntosh, Parker Thompson and Dan Harper claimed LMGT3 victory in a close finish at the 2026 FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) opener. They crossed the line just 0.265 seconds ahead of the #33 TF Sport Corvette crew, marking the fifth tightest finish the series has ever seen.
From the outset, the LMGT3 category produced intense competition. Multiple manufacturers battled fiercely, and the contest quickly evolved into a duel between the #69 BMW crew and the Garage 59 McLaren 720S GT3 Evo.
Strategy shapes the race but a sudden twist changes everything
Garage 59 started strongly after Tom Fleming secured pole position with an outstanding debut performance. The team then adopted a bold and creative strategy. They inserted Marvin Kirchhoefer for a single mid-race stint before he returned for the decisive final run.
As a result, the McLaren held a narrow advantage over Dan Harper’s BMW heading into the closing stages. The race appeared set for a dramatic showdown between two evenly matched contenders.
However, the race took a decisive turn when Kirchhoefer’s McLaren suddenly lost power on the start/finish straight. Harper seized the opportunity immediately and surged into the lead.
Despite gaining track position, Harper faced relentless pressure. Nicky Catsburg, driving the TF Sport Corvette, closed in rapidly during the final laps. At the same time, Harper dealt with added tension after a brief team miscommunication created uncertainty over the final lap.
Nevertheless, Harper maintained composure under pressure and held his line to the chequered flag. Catsburg ultimately finished just 0.265 seconds behind in the car he shared with Jonny Edgar and Blake McDonald.
Meanwhile, the #92 Manthey Porsche 911 GT3 R Evo secured third place after a resilient drive. Richard Lietz, Yasser Shahin and Riccardo Pera recovered impressively from an early spin by Shahin. Furthermore, the reigning champions demonstrated their trademark strategic precision, positioning themselves strongly as they begin their LMGT3 title defence.
Thompson celebrates emotional debut victory at 2026 WEC 6 Hours of Imola
Parker Thompson reflected on the milestone moment after securing victory in his first WEC appearance.
“Unbelievable,” said Parker Thompson’s reaction after his debut win in the WEC. “I can’t thank Tony McIntosh enough for getting me over here. The World Endurance Championship is incredible. The fans here at Imola up are second to none and what I got to experience today is truly something that was out of a bucket list.
“It’s not many drivers can say that they won the first FIA WEC race. Team WRT is just second to none. What they do behind the strategy, behind the preparation of the cars, it’s just unbelievable. I couldn’t be prouder to be a part of this.”
This victory marked Team WRT’s second win at Imola in three seasons, reinforcing the circuit as a stronghold for the Vincent Vosse-led squad. Their strategic execution and race management once again proved decisive.
A race that sets the tone for 2026
Overall, the Imola round delivered high drama, bold strategy and relentless competition. With such a thrilling start to the LMGT3 season, the championship promises many more unforgettable moments in the races ahead.
