Team Peugeot TotalEnergies heads into 2026 with a clear focus on evolution and performance. Imola will serve as the first major test in an increasingly competitive Hypercar field.
The fourth FIA WEC season begins with strategic changes, technical challenges and growing ambition.
Imola opener: a demanding start to the season
The 2026 FIA World Endurance Championship kicks off at the 6 Hours of Imola, with around 18 Hypercars expected on the grid .
Following the postponement of the Qatar round, Imola becomes the season opener, immediately placing teams under pressure on a narrow, technical circuit where traffic management and race execution are critical.
Continuous evolution: building on momentum
The PEUGEOT 9X8 project enters its fourth season backed by steady progress. After securing its first podium in 2023 and adding more in 2024 and 2025, the team now aims to turn that momentum into consistent competitiveness .
Rather than major technical overhauls, the winter development focused on refining details, improving car understanding and maximizing performance through simulation work.
New tires, new challenges
A key factor for 2026 will be adapting to Michelin Pilot Sport Endurance tires. While some competitors have already raced with them, Peugeot had to rely on dedicated testing, including sessions in Portimão.
According to Team Director Emmanuel Esnault, these tests were crucial in preparing the team for the season ahead .
Revised line-ups with balanced experience
Peugeot has reshaped its driver line-ups for 2026. Car #93 features Paul Di Resta, Stoffel Vandoorne and Nick Cassidy, while car #94 will be driven by Loïc Duval, Malthe Jakobsen and Théo Pourchaire .
This structure blends experience with emerging talent, aiming to handle the intensity of Hypercar competition.
A new look inspired by GTi heritage
The PEUGEOT 9X8 also debuts a new livery inspired by the brand’s GTi heritage. The red, white and black design connects past and present, marking a symbolic year as Peugeot celebrates 100 years since its Le Mans debut .
Clear objective: consistency to unlock results
Peugeot’s ambition for 2026 is clear: improve overall execution. Beyond raw speed, the focus lies on strategy, consistency and maximizing every opportunity during races.
With the Hypercar class more competitive than ever, Imola will be the first real indicator of how far the PEUGEOT 9X8 can go this season.
