GT World Challenge (GTWC) Asia powered by AWS continues its 2026 campaign with a highly anticipated visit to Pertamina Mandalika International Circuit. As the series returns to the Indonesian island for Rounds 3 and 4, teams and drivers prepare for a pivotal weekend that could reshape the early championship picture.
Following an action-packed opener at Sepang, momentum now shifts to one of the most visually striking and technically demanding circuits on the calendar. With tight margins at the top and evolving line-ups across the grid, Mandalika sets the stage for another unpredictable chapter.
Porsche pair set the early 2026 GTWC Asia benchmark in Sepang but proven winner ready to respond at Mandalika
Heading into the weekend, Huang Ruohan and Alessandro Ghiretti lead the standings after a standout debut together for Absolute Racing. Their combination of speed and consistency delivered victory and a podium finish at Sepang, immediately establishing them as title contenders.
Moreover, the duo will run a special Indonesian-inspired livery, reflecting both local culture and their intent to continue strong form. With Porsche machinery proving highly competitive across the opening rounds, they arrive as clear favourites—yet far from secure at the top.
Close behind, Lu Wei and Alessio Picariello remain firmly in contention. The Origine pairing responded strongly in Sepang’s second race and bring valuable experience to Mandalika, where they claimed victory last season.
However, a 15-second success penalty for Race 1 presents an immediate challenge. As a result, their ability to recover and maximise points across both races will be crucial in maintaining pressure on the leaders.
At the same time, Anthony Liu and Dorian Boccolacci sit third in the standings, further underlining Porsche’s early dominance. With Loek Hartog stepping in this weekend, the fight at the front gains an additional layer of unpredictability.
Adding local excitement, Sean Gelael makes his first competitive appearance at Mandalika. Racing on home soil, he carries strong expectations and the potential to challenge established contenders.
Meanwhile, several driver changes across the Pro field could influence the competitive order. Yuichi Nakayama and Kimiya Sato join new programmes, while Jesse Krohn strengthens another entry.
Consequently, adaptability will prove essential as teams adjust to both new combinations and Mandalika’s unique demands.
Battles across the classes intensify
Beyond the headline fight, the supporting classes promise equally compelling storylines. In the Silver category, Akash Nandy leads the standings and will look to build on his strong Sepang performance.
At the same time, contenders such as Cheng Congfu and Yu Kuai remain close enough to capitalise on any opportunity, particularly in Race 1 where the Qualifying format favours their class.
In Silver-Am, Kiyoshi Uchiyama and Tsubasa Kondo carry momentum, while reigning champion Maxime Oosten seeks to reclaim control.
Manufacturers and future stars in focus
The Mandalika grid once again highlights the championship’s global reach, featuring leading marques such as Porsche, Mercedes-AMG, BMW, Audi, Ferrari, Lamborghini, and Nissan.
In addition, the SRO GT Academy battle continues to develop, with several drivers chasing a coveted opportunity at the CrowdStrike 24 Hours of Spa. Therefore, every session carries added significance beyond immediate race results.
Weekend outlook at Mandalika
As the championship heads into its third and fourth rounds, Mandalika presents a critical opportunity for teams to consolidate or overturn early momentum. The circuit’s coastal conditions, combined with its flowing layout, demand precision, tyre management, and strategic awareness.
Ultimately, while Porsche enters the weekend as the benchmark, the narrow gaps and competitive depth across the grid ensure no margin for error. Consequently, the Mandalika rounds could prove decisive in shaping the trajectory of the 2026 GT World Challenge Asia season.
