Lionspeed GP has strengthened its ambitions for the 2026 GT World Challenge (GTWC) Europe powered by AWS season by signing Porsche factory driver Thomas Preining. The Austrian will join the team’s Pro class effort, driving the No. 80 Porsche 911 GT3 R Evo in the Endurance Cup alongside Ricardo Feller and Bastian Buus. This move marks a significant step for the team as it prepares for its first full-scale assault on outright honours.
Proven pedigree adds firepower
Preining arrives at Lionspeed GP with an impressive résumé. He secured the 2023 DTM title at the wheel of a Porsche, underlining his credentials as one of the marque’s leading drivers. Furthermore, he has built extensive experience in GT World Challenge Europe, competing with several teams running Porsche machinery, including Pure Rxcing last season.
As a result, his addition provides Lionspeed GP with a proven race winner capable of delivering results at the highest level. His familiarity with the Porsche 911 GT3 platform should also help the team accelerate its Pro class development.
A new chapter in GTWC Europe for Lionspeed GP with a strong supporting cast of Preining, Feller and Buus for 2026
This season represents a milestone for Lionspeed GP as it steps up into the Pro class for the first time. By securing a factory driver of Preining’s calibre, the team signals its intent to compete at the very front of the grid.
Moreover, the No. 80 entry features a well-balanced driver line-up. Preining’s speed and experience complement the consistency and racecraft of his teammates, creating a trio capable of challenging established frontrunners throughout the Endurance Cup campaign.
Ricardo Feller brings both recent success and familiarity with the team. The Swiss driver claimed victory at the 2024 Nürburgring 24 Hours and also secured a podium finish in the Bronze Cup with Lionspeed GP in last year’s GTWC Europe season. In addition, he boasts championship-winning credentials, having taken the 2023 Sprint Cup title with Attempto Racing in an Audi.
Meanwhile, Bastian Buus had already been confirmed as part of the Pro line-up, completing a competitive trio in the No. 80 car. Together, the three drivers form a blend of youth, experience and proven success across multiple GT racing platforms.
Bronze entry completes Lionspeed GP line-up
Alongside its Pro class effort, Lionspeed GP has also finalised its Bronze Cup entry. The No. 89 Porsche will be driven by Alex Fontana, Patrick Kolb and Bashar Mardini, a line-up that adds depth to the team’s overall programme.
With both entries confirmed, Lionspeed GP heads into the 2026 season with clear momentum. The addition of Thomas Preining not only elevates the team’s Pro class ambitions but also reinforces its intent to compete across multiple categories with a strong and cohesive driver roster.
