The roar of engines and the thrill of motorsport are set to come alive at the Lusail International Circuit (LIC) as the highly anticipated 2025 FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) begins with the Qatar 1812 KM race. This event marks the start of the season and showcases the competition between some of the biggest names in automotive and motorsport.
On February 28, 2025, the LIC will be the stage for this spectacular race, celebrating Qatar’s National Day. The Qatar 1812 KM, lasting 10 hours, signifies the first encounter of 36 participating teams, split evenly between the Hypercar and LMGT3 categories. Following its successful debut last year, this event has become indispensable, promising exhilarating action as teams seek to gain early momentum for the eight-round championship.
Since its opening, the Lusail International Circuit has gained recognition as a premier racing venue, hosting prestigious events such as MotoGP and Formula 1. Now, it sets the stage for another exciting chapter of endurance racing. The upcoming season will take competitors to various countries, including Bahrain, Italy, and the USA, before concluding later this year.
Earlier this week, the LIC hosted the 2025 Prologue, where teams had the opportunity to set their pace. Among the competitors, elite manufacturers like Aston Martin, BMW, Ferrari, and the reigning champions Porsche Penske Motorsport are gearing up for the challenge. "After winning the drivers’ title last year, our goal is now to claim the biggest trophy for manufacturers as well," stated Thomas Laudenbach, the Vice President of Porsche Motorsport.
With such ambitions, competition will undoubtedly be fierce. Former Formula 1 world champion Jenson Button, now driving for Cadillac Hertz Team JOTA, expressed his excitement about the season kick-off. "I’m looking forward to going back to a circuit where I have fond memories. We need to build on the Cadillac’s strong performance from last year," he said, emphasizing the team’s readiness to start strong.
The track at LIC offers unique challenges; it features high-speed straights and technical corners, which will test both the drivers and their vehicles. Reigning Hypercar world champion Kévin Estre noted the circuit's distinctive characteristics: "The entire track is very flat, with hardly any bumps and a lot of grip. Getting the tyres to the optimal operating window will be key." This adaptation will play a significant role as teams shift from daylight racing to night conditions.
Starting at 14:00 local time, the Qatar 1812 KM will showcase competitors racing from the day’s bright light to the cool darkness of night, posing challenges from fluctuated temperatures to strategic decisions. Drivers like Robin Frijns, representing BMW, recognized the testing conditions as pivotal for their performance. "Everything feels good. Getting the opportunity to do some driving at night during the Prologue was important," he expressed, illustrating the importance of preparation for the race.
The event isn't limited to the 10-hour endurance race; the LIC will host various support events, including the Lusail Classic Race and races from the F4 Middle East Championship. This multi-faceted motorsport spectacle will undoubtedly draw attention from fans everywhere.
Attention will also be on the LMGT3 class featuring teams such as TF Sport, Akkodis ASP, and Vista AF Corse. The notable team of WRT, with nine-time world champion Valentino Rossi behind the wheel, prepares to showcase their prowess. Rossi has already made waves earlier in his career by securing multiple wins at LIC on two wheels. The excitement among the drivers and manufacturers is palpable as they gear up for what many expect will be one of the most competitive seasons yet.
The full event timetable is available, and fans can follow the race through the official FIA WEC App, ensuring they won’t miss any intense moments from the thrilling season opener. With every team aiming to establish their dominance right from the start, the Qatar 1812 KM promises to be the highlight of the motor racing calendar with adrenaline and excitement.