HAAS RT will begin a new chapter in its GT3 programme when it debuts the BMW M4 GT3 EVO at the 2026 Michelin 12H Nürburgring from 3–5 July.
The Belgian team will move on from the Audi R8 LMS GT3 EVO II as it pursues fresh performance opportunities and a new technical partnership with BMW M Motorsport. Moreover, the Nürburgring event will give HAAS RT an immediate opportunity to test its new package in a demanding endurance-racing environment.
BMW switch marks an important step for HAAS RT
HAAS RT built valuable experience with the Audi R8 LMS GT3 EVO II. However, the team now views the BMW M4 GT3 EVO as the platform that can support the next stage of its international racing programme.
Team Manager Kris Dedoncker described the move as an ambitious step while acknowledging the role that Audi played in the team’s development.
“This is an exciting and ambitious step for HAAS RT,” said Dedoncker. “The Audi R8 LMS GT3 EVO II has been a reliable and respected part of our journey, and we are grateful for everything we achieved with that platform. At the same time, the BMW M4 GT3 EVO represents the future direction of our program. Its focus on drivability, efficiency and reliability makes it a strong fit for endurance racing, and the Nürburgring is the perfect place to begin this new chapter.”
As a result, HAAS RT will enter the event with a new technical direction while building on the discipline and knowledge that it developed with Audi machinery.
Team targets long-term growth with BMW M Motorsport
The manufacturer change forms part of a wider strategy for HAAS RT. The team wants to improve its competitiveness, strengthen its technical development and expand its presence in international endurance racing.
Team Owner Sandrine Haas believes the switch reflects the organisation’s determination to continue growing and competing at a high level.
“This move to BMW is a very exciting moment for everyone at HAAS RT,” said Haas. “It reflects our ambition to keep growing as a team, to challenge ourselves at the highest level and to build the next phase of our endurance racing project with a manufacturer and car that share our competitive mindset. We are proud of what we have achieved so far, and we are even more motivated by what lies ahead.”
Therefore, HAAS RT will treat the Nürburgring weekend as both a competitive debut and an important benchmark. The team will use the event to study the car’s behaviour, refine its working methods and identify areas for further development.
BMW M4 GT3 EVO brings updated endurance package
BMW introduced the M4 GT3 EVO for the 2025 season and focused its development work on consistency, drivability and usability for customer racing teams.
The updated car features optimised aerodynamics and improved chassis components. BMW also targeted lower tyre and brake wear, which could prove particularly valuable during long-distance races.
In addition, the manufacturer updated the lighting elements and introduced a lighter body-coating process. BMW’s P58 inline six-cylinder engine, which uses M TwinPower Turbo technology, powers the car.
Together, these changes aim to deliver competitive performance across sprint and endurance formats. The package should also help teams maintain consistency across long stints and changing track conditions.
HAAS RT prepares for demanding transition
Although the new car offers significant potential, HAAS RT faces a considerable technical challenge. The engineers must understand a new set of data, while the mechanics must adapt their procedures to the BMW platform.
Meanwhile, the drivers must learn how the car responds under different fuel loads, tyre conditions and track environments. Every department must therefore contribute to the transition.
Dedoncker highlighted the work taking place throughout the organisation ahead of the team’s first race with the BMW.
“Switching to a new GT3 car is always a major undertaking for the entire organization,” added Dedoncker. “Our engineers, mechanics, drivers and partners are fully committed to making this transition a success. We enter the 12H Nürburgring with respect for the challenge ahead, but also with confidence, motivation and a clear desire to compete at a high level.”
Consequently, HAAS RT will focus on reliability, consistency and efficient execution as it begins to explore the full potential of its new machinery.
Nürburgring provides first competitive benchmark
The Michelin 12H Nürburgring will feature a diverse international field of GT3, GT4 and touring cars. The mixed-class format will add traffic management and strategic complexity to an already demanding race.
Free practice and qualifying will take place on Friday. The event will then run across two six-hour race segments on Saturday and Sunday.
The split format will require HAAS RT to combine speed with careful tyre management, reliable pit work and consistent performance across both days.
Ultimately, the Nürburgring weekend will give the team its first clear indication of how the BMW package performs under competitive conditions. HAAS RT will announce its driver line-up and further programme details in due course.
