Two BMW customer teams have outlined contrasting but complementary strategies ahead of the 2026 season of GT World Challenge (GTWC) Asia powered by AWS. While Plus Racing retains a familiar driver pairing, reigning Silver-Am champions Team KRC will expand to a two-car operation. Both squads will campaign the latest Evo version of the BMW M4 GT3 Evo.
Plus Racing maintains proven partnership for 2026 GTWC Asia in BMW machinery
Plus Racing continues with stability at its core. The Japanese outfit, whose BMW programme operates under the oversight of Team Studie, again fields long-time Pro-Am duo Tomohide Yamaguchi and Seiji Ara.
The pairing returned to Asia’s premier GT3 championship last season after taking a sabbatical in 2024. Previously, they demonstrated their competitiveness by finishing sixth overall two years earlier.
By keeping its line-up unchanged, Plus Racing signals confidence in continuity as it looks to convert experience into stronger overall results in 2026.
Team KRC steps up to 2026 GTWC Asia with second BMW entry
In contrast, Team KRC has chosen expansion. After securing the 2025 Silver-Am crown and remaining in overall title contention until the Beijing finale, the squad will field a second BMW M4 GT3 Evo next season.
Additionally, the team strengthened its international profile with an appearance in the Intercontinental GT Challenge at the Suzuka 1000km, where Tony Ruan and Maxime Oosten secured a class podium finish.
The same duo spearheaded KRC’s 2025 Asian campaign. However, the team has yet to confirm whether they will reunite for a third consecutive season. Instead, KRC will announce both 2026 driver line-ups at a later date.
Bathurst beckons before Asia return
Before the new Asian season begins, KRC will compete on the global stage once more. Ruan and Oosten will partner BMW factory driver Max Hesse at the upcoming Meguiar’s Bathurst 12 Hour.
The event, staged at Mount Panorama on February 13–15, opens this year’s Intercontinental GT Challenge campaign and provides valuable preparation ahead of GT World Challenge Asia.
Consequently, BMW’s customer programmes enter 2026 with clear but differing objectives: Plus Racing relies on established chemistry, while Team KRC builds momentum through expansion and international ambition.
