The opening day of the2026 International GT Open non-mandatory testing session organised by GT Sport at Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya provided an ideal showcase for Porsche machinery under sunny, mild conditions. With the 2026 International GT Open season approaching, two debuting Porsche teams immediately set the benchmark.
Fach Auto Tech and ZRS Motorsport shared top honours across all sessions, producing a closely fought battle throughout the day. As a result, both squads left a strong early impression in their first official GT Open appearance.
Fach Auto Tech tops the timesheets with ZRS Motorsport close behind on opening day of 2026 International GT Open pre-season testing
Fach Auto Tech fielded two Porsche 911 GT3 R (992) Evo II entries for the test, with drivers Alexander Fach and Alexander Schwager sharing the Pro-Am car, while Joel Monegro Reyes competed in the Am entry.
The Swiss squad ultimately set the fastest lap of the day, with Fach recording a best time of 1:39.986 in the fourth session. Notably, he was the only driver to break the 1:40 barrier, underlining the team’s early pace and adaptation to new Michelin tyres.
Both Fach and Schwager reflected positively on their opening day of running, highlighting strong progress and growing confidence. They emphasised their focus on learning the tyres and building consistency across sessions as the key objective of the test.
Meanwhile, Monegro Reyes also expressed satisfaction with his debut GT3 experience, describing the importance of testing opportunities while adapting to both the car and a new level of competition.
On the other hand, ZRS Motorsport also made a strong impression in its GT Open debut, fielding an entry driven by Alex Fontana and Pietro Armanni.
The Italian squad posted the second-fastest time of the day, with a best lap of 1:40.186—just two-tenths off the benchmark. Consequently, ZRS Motorsport immediately established itself as a competitive newcomer in the field.
Armanni summarised the team’s productive opening day, highlighting the positive working environment and encouraging performance. He also noted anticipation for the arrival of the Evo II car and upcoming preparations ahead of the season opener in Portimão.
Strong start for Porsche in GT Open
Overall, the opening test day highlighted a strong start for Porsche-powered teams entering the International GT Open for 2026. With Fach Auto Tech narrowly edging ZRS Motorsport across the sessions, both squads demonstrated immediate competitiveness.
Therefore, as preparations continue, the early pace suggests an intense intra-manufacturer battle is already forming, setting the stage for a highly competitive debut season for both teams.
