Evolving the competitive package, Ferrari’s GT3 racer is getting a host of upgrades for the 2026 season. The car sees a new aerodynamics package formed from a new front splitter, floor, diffuser, and altered wheel arch louvres. The aim is to provide a more predictable racer, which maintains consistent levels of aerodynamic grip even when closely following another car. The bonnet hosts two air inlets that send 20% more cooling air to the brakes than before, and out of sight is a pair of NACA ducts on the floor that cool the power steering pump.

The most obvious changes are found at the rear, with rear arches taken from the Le Mans-optimised LMGT3 variant, and a brand new rear wing mounted to swan-neck supports. New endplates feature at the extremities, but the aerofoil itself can now be quickly adjusted by twisting a screw, marking a first for the GT3 category and allowing for quick set-up changes during pit stops. Mechanical grip has been considered too, with a new suspension design featuring double wishbones at both ends, tubular steel arms, and 5-way adjustable dampers. An improved handling balance, and greater reliability is promised as a result.

Under the carbon fibre bodywork, the engine remains unchanged, and the 2.9-litre twin-turbocharged V6 F163CE engine does without the hybrid system of its road-going counterpart. Regardless, it still produces 599bhp at 7,250rpm, and 524lb-ft (710Nm) at 5,500rpm before Balance of Performance comes into play to level the multi-brand GT3 playing field. In this setting, the engine is tilted forwards by two degrees to allow for a larger rear diffuser to be fitted, and drive is sent to the rear wheels via a six-speed sequential transmission that sits within a magnesium casing. 

The 296 GT3 Evo will take part in short sprint races, and 24 hour endurance challenges across the world, so drivers will be thankful for an additional fan in the air conditioning system. The most fragile part of the old model has been addressed, as the wing mirrors have been redesigned and placed closer to the windows to improve rearwards visibility, and reduce the chances of gentle contact creating a mirrorless racing car.

The 296 GT3 was developed by French manufacturer ORECA, and the car will continue to be built in the south of France in its Evo guise. At present, six are completed each month, and existing cars will be able to be converted to Evo specifications with an update kit. Ferrari have also confirmed a “Biposto” two-seater version has been created, designed for customers who want a GT3 car but don’t want to race it. This will feature a modified interior to allow for a passenger to enjoy track day laps alongside the driver.

GT3 homologations last for seven years, with updates permitted to keep a car competitive for an extended period of time, and to reduce the long-term running costs for the teams. As such, the 296 GT3 Evo could be considered a facelift - something that Ferrari doesn’t do for its road cars - but in the context of racing, continuous development is a must. The revised racer will take the green flag for the first time in 2026, with the Daytona 24 Hours looking a likely setting for its competition debut.