Genesis joins WEC with Shell
Genesis Magma Racing is entering the 2026 FIA WEC Hypercar class with a new technical and sponsorship partnership with Shell — Shell is expanding from rally ties into top‑level endurance racing (newsroom.genesis.com). The move signals increased manufacturer and fuels partner investment in Hypercar development for the season ahead (newsroom.genesis.com).
The Genesis GMR-001 uses a Genesis GMR 3.2‑litre turbo V8 that was derived from an I4 powerplant, and Shell says it co‑engineered bespoke engine oils tailored to that V8’s endurance demands. (newsroom.genesis.com) Shell engineers performed detailed oil‑sample analysis after every dyno session and accompanied the team to circuits to conduct real‑time lubricant evaluations during on‑track tests. (newsroom.genesis.com) The partnership includes visible Shell branding on the GMR‑001 and season‑long marketing activations under Shell’s “First Fill” campaign tied to Hyundai Motor Company collaborations. (newsroom.genesis.com) Genesis Magma Racing’s programme is backed operationally by Hyundai Motorsport and draws technical assistance from ORECA Motorsport and IDEC Sport, with the project planned to extend into IMSA in 2027. (genesisnewsusa.com) Leadership and driver depth for the programme include Team Principal Cyril Abiteboul and Sporting Director Gabriele Tarquini, with race drivers André Lotterer, Pipo Derani, Daniel Juncadella, Mathys Jaubert, Mathieu Jaminet and Paul‑Loup Chatin and Jamie Chadwick listed as reserve. (fiawec.com) On‑track development has already progressed through closed testing — Mathieu Jaminet completed initial laps at MotorLand Aragón and media spotted the GMR‑001 running at Imola, where observers noted the V8’s distinct sound during shakedown runs. (fiawec.com) (autoevolution.com)
