The opening five and a half hours of the 2026 Michelin 12H Mugello race delivered unpredictability, strategy shifts and relentless on-track battles, leaving six GT3 cars on the lead lap heading into Sunday’s decisive finale.
Although the early stages followed a predictable script, the race soon transformed into a strategic chess match. As a result, father-and-son pairing Peter and Nicolas Guelinckx surged to the front in the HAAS RT Audi R8, securing the overnight lead.
2026 12H Mugello: GT3: Lead battle intensifies as race strategies diverge
Initially, pole-sitter Maro Engel controlled the race in the GetSpeed Mercedes-AMG GT3 EVO, building a comfortable gap over Sainteloc Junior Team’s Audi. However, as pit strategies unfolded and multiple Code 60 interruptions disrupted rhythm, the order shifted dramatically.
Consequently, HAAS RT capitalised on the changing conditions. With just a couple of hours remaining, the Guelinckx duo moved into the lead and maintained composure to hold position into the overnight break.
Behind them, ARC Bratislava’s Lamborghini Huracan GT3 EVO, driven by Miro and Adam Konopka alongside Zdeno Mikulasko and Gerhard Tweraser, secured second place. Meanwhile, Herberth Motorsport’s Porsche 911 GT3 R (992) EVO claimed third after a calculated late fuel strategy.
Furthermore, Era Motorsport’s Ferrari 296 GT3 and two Audi entries from Sainteloc and Continental Racing completed a tightly packed top six. Importantly, all remain on the lead lap, setting up a fierce showdown in the final six and a half hours.
Early drama and mid-race turning points
At the start, Engel defended firmly while battles raged behind him. Jake Hill quickly emerged as one of the standout performers, climbing through the field with decisive overtakes.
Soon after, pit cycles and driver changes reshuffled positions. Notably, Oliver Campos delivered an impressive stint in the E2P Racing Aston Martin, briefly elevating the team into the top three before mechanical issues set them back.
Then, repeated Code 60 periods added further complexity. Incidents involving Ajith Kumar’s Mercedes and the Vortex GTX car not only neutralised the race multiple times but also forced teams into split-second strategic decisions.
Ultimately, these interruptions allowed HAAS RT and ARC Bratislava to rise to prominence while others faltered.
2026 12H Mugello: 992 Class: Red Camel and Mühlner locked in duel during intense first half of race
In the 992 category, Red Camel-Jordans.nl and Mühlner Motorsport established themselves as the primary contenders. Initially, Rik Breukers grabbed the advantage and built a steady lead.
However, Mühlner responded strongly through consistent stints from Martin Rump and team-mates. As the race progressed, the gap fluctuated, reflecting the evenly matched pace between both teams.
By the interim flag, Breukers held a narrow 12-second lead over Rump. Crucially, Red Camel opted for fresh Michelin tyres late in the session, signalling a strategic focus on Sunday’s restart.
Meanwhile, QMMF by HRT Performance maintained third overall and led the 992 AM subclass, ensuring another layer of competition heading into the final phase.
2026 12H Mugello: GTX and TCE-TCX: Drama despite clear race leaders
Although Dinamic Motorsport’s Maserati MC20 GT2 appeared dominant in GTX, the class still experienced its share of drama. Early on, the Vortex 2.0 challenged strongly before multiple incidents, including barrier contact and spins, derailed its progress.
Even more striking, the Maserati itself encountered trouble late in the session after being forced into the gravel. Nevertheless, it retained a commanding 17-lap lead overnight.
In TCE-TCX, Not Only Motorsport controlled proceedings with its Ligier JS2 R. Yet, a late driveshaft issue threatened to undo its advantage. Despite losing significant time in the garage, the team recovered quickly.
As a result, the Ligier reclaimed the lead before the end of part one and heads into Sunday just 17 seconds ahead of the pursuing SEAT Leon Cup Racer.
Intense second half awaits at Mugello
Following the overnight pause under parc fermé conditions, the race will resume at midday local time on Sunday. With six GT3 cars still in contention and close battles across all classes, the stage is set for an intense and unpredictable conclusion.
Therefore, teams must balance aggression with precision as they chase victory in one of endurance racing’s most demanding contests.
