Creventic has confirmed an exciting addition, the 8H Qatar, to the Michelin 24H Series Middle East Trophy for the 2026/2027 season. Qatar’s Lusail International Circuit, renowned for hosting prestigious motorsport events including Formula 1, will now be the venue for the opening round of this celebrated endurance racing championship. This announcement marks a significant expansion of the series in the Gulf region, a move that is expected to attract even more global attention and participation.
The Michelin 8H Qatar: A premier opening for the 2026/2027 24H Series Middle East Trophy season
The Michelin 8H Qatar will take place on Friday, 11 December, and Saturday, 12 December, officially launching the three-round Middle East Trophy. This race meeting is poised to become one of the standout events of the 2026/2027 calendar, offering a unique opportunity for teams, drivers, and fans to experience the iconic Lusail Circuit. Additionally, with the season entirely based in the Gulf region, competitors will enjoy a convenient and high-profile winter racing programme.
The Gulf Region: A hub for motorsports
While the full 2026/2027 calendar has yet to be fully confirmed, Creventic has assured that both Dubai Autodrome and Yas Marina Circuit in Abu Dhabi will remain central to the Middle East Trophy. This continuation solidifies the region’s role as a premier motorsport destination. The inclusion of Qatar adds further appeal, particularly for European teams looking to capitalise on the region’s strategic advantages.
Beyond the race weekend itself, teams will benefit from the logistical ease of shipping cars and equipment early in the winter, allowing them to remain in the region for both the 8H QATAR and subsequent races in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. This setup is expected to streamline operations, with testing opportunities also available at Lusail before the event itself. Notably, two CR Track Days will take place on Wednesday, 9 December, and Thursday, 10 December, offering additional track time before the official race weekend.
A strategic collaboration with Lusail International Circuit for 2026/2027 Michelin 24H Series
Creventic’s relationship with Lusail International Circuit has been in the works for over two years, with both parties eager to bring the Michelin 24H SERIES to the iconic venue. “We are very proud to announce this new race in Qatar. Over the past years we have built a strong and successful foundation in the Middle East with our races in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, which were very well supported by teams and drivers. With the addition of Qatar, we aim to offer our competitors a complete and attractive winter racing programme,” said Helen Roukens, Team Relations at Creventic.
Lusail International Circuit’s strategic importance continues to grow, and the addition of the Michelin 8H Qatar further enhances Qatar’s reputation as a prime location for international motorsport.
“We are pleased to welcome the Michelin 24H SERIES Middle East Trophy to Lusail International Circuit for the inaugural Michelin 8H QATAR. Hosting this endurance event reflects our continued commitment to bringing international motorsport to Qatar. As a venue that regularly stages major global competitions, LIC is proud to host the opening round of the 2026/2027 MICHELIN 24H SERIES Middle East Trophy season and contribute to Qatar’s position as a destination for international sporting events. We look forward to delivering a well-organised experience for teams, drivers and partners this December,” said Abdulaziz Al Mohannadi, CEO at Lusail International Circuit.
Looking ahead to expansion and global partnerships
The 2026/2027 Michelin 24H SERIES Middle East Trophy is only one part of Creventic’s broader plans for global expansion. The organisation continues to foster strong relationships within motorsport regions, and while the Middle East remains a priority, Creventic is also looking ahead to future opportunities in the Far East. Through its collaboration with the Chinese Endurance Championship (CEC), Creventic is poised to offer further international racing platforms for teams and competitors in the years to come.
2026/2027 24H Series Middle East Trophy 8H Qatar addition a milestone for endurance racing
With the debut of the Michelin 8H QATAR and the confirmation of Qatar’s inclusion in the Middle East Trophy, Creventic has ensured that the 2026/2027 season will be one of the most exciting yet. The addition of Lusail International Circuit to the series not only strengthens the appeal of the Gulf region as a motorsport hub but also reflects the growing prominence of Qatar in the international sports scene. Fans and competitors alike can look forward to a thrilling season that kicks off with what is set to be a spectacular opening round in Qatar.
This new chapter for Creventic promises to elevate the Michelin 24H Series, providing teams with a complete and attractive winter racing programme while further solidifying the region’s place on the global motorsport calendar.
