GEDLICH Racing has confirmed a capacity grid of 56 cars for the 2027 Formula Winter Series, with all available entries allocated ahead of the upcoming campaign. The record-breaking field follows the championship’s decision to introduce a new tournament format, expanding its capacity by 24 cars.
The increased capacity has attracted established Formula 4 teams from across Europe, including returning frontrunners and outfits that previously struggled to secure places on the grid. As a result, the 2027 season will feature the largest field in Formula Winter Series history.
New tournament format allows Formula Winter Series to expand
The championship’s decision to introduce a revised tournament format for 2027 has enabled organisers to increase the total number of entries from 32 to 56 while limiting the number of cars competing in individual races.
Previously, the championship’s grid capacity restricted opportunities for interested teams. However, the revised structure will accommodate an additional 24 cars, allowing more drivers to gain competitive Formula 4 experience during the European winter.
GEDLICH Racing Chief Sales Officer Robin Selbach welcomed the response from teams, highlighting the growing demand for Formula 4 competition.
“Courtesy of our new format for 2027, we are able to welcome 24 additional cars to the Formula Winter Series. We knew the level of demand was well beyond our previous capacity, but seeing it materialise into a 56-car entry allocation is truly impressive. Along with our success forming a capacity grid for the inaugural FIA-certified F4 German Championship, the popularity of the Formula Winter Series emphasises the strength of Formula 4 racing globally.”
How the revised 2027 Formula Winter Series format will work
The new tournament structure will divide the 56-car field into two randomly selected groups of 28 drivers. Each group will contest two preliminary races, allowing drivers to compete on smaller grids despite the championship’s expanded overall entry.
The 14 highest-scoring drivers from each group will subsequently qualify for the Final, creating a 28-car field for the weekend’s main race. Meanwhile, the remaining 28 competitors will contest the Challengers Race, ensuring that every driver receives a third competitive outing.
The revised format aims to provide more racing opportunities while allowing drivers to compete against similarly placed rivals. It will also give emerging talents additional opportunities to challenge for strong results rather than spending entire weekends towards the back of a large field.
The expansion follows GEDLICH Racing’s wider changes to its 2027 winter racing programme, which includes revised schedules and increased opportunities for young single-seater drivers.
Estoril to host 2027 Formula Winter Series season opener
The 2027 Formula Winter Series will begin at Circuito do Estoril in Portugal from 21–24 January, with the expanded field joining the GT Winter Series and GT4 Winter Series for the opening event.
The championship will subsequently visit Portimão, Jerez, Barcelona-Catalunya and Valencia across its five-round calendar, providing drivers with experience at several established European circuits.
With all 56 entries already allocated, organisers can now focus on preparing for the introduction of the revised format. The record field will provide an early test of the new structure as the Formula Winter Series continues expanding its role in developing young single-seater talent.
