McLaren Racing will return to the pinnacle of endurance racing in 2027, entering the Hypercar category of the FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC), which includes the legendary 24 Hours of Le Mans. The British marque made the announcement on Thursday with a simple yet powerful statement: “We’re back.”
The brief message evoked memories of McLaren’s historic Le Mans victory in 1995 with the iconic F1 GTR, a win that cemented their place among motorsport’s elite. The statement read:
“1995. Legendary Le Mans victory. Triple Crown glory. Ready to make our mark on the world endurance stage once again. Hypercar. 2027 World Endurance Championship. We’re Back.”
Zak Brown, CEO of McLaren Racing, echoed the sentiment, confirming the brand’s ambitions to once again compete at the highest level of endurance racing. No technical or team details have been disclosed yet, but the announcement marks a major moment in McLaren’s motorsport history.
McLaren last competed in the top class at Le Mans in 1997 and 1998 before a lengthy absence. The company made a return to endurance racing in 2024 in the LMGT3 category, and now eyes a full-fledged Hypercar campaign in one of the sport’s most competitive and prestigious arenas.
Their 2027 entry will see them join an increasingly star-studded grid. Ford is also preparing for a return, while Hyundai’s luxury division Genesis is set to debut in 2026. By 2027, the Hypercar field is expected to feature no fewer than 11 manufacturers, showcasing a golden era of manufacturer rivalry and innovation.
McLaren’s re-entry into the WEC follows a landmark season in 2024, where they clinched their first Formula One constructors’ championship since 1998. With momentum behind them, the team is poised to chase a second Le Mans victory and possibly add another chapter to their illustrious Triple Crown legacy.
