FIA GT World Cup Macao: 6 Manufacturers Ready to Battle

The FIA GT World Cup weekend is fast approaching on the twisty and unforgiving Macao street circuit. It is one of the most anticipated events of the international GT season. Scheduled from November 13 to 16, the event will once again feature six major manufacturers ready to fight for glory through the narrow and technical corners of the legendary Asian track.

One of the main headlines this year is the absence of Mercedes, which will not field any official entries for the 2025 edition, making room for McLaren, represented by Benjamin Goethe driving the 720S GT3 Evo of Optimum Motorsport.

The Macao starting grid will also be smaller than last year’s, with six fewer cars compared to the 22 entries seen in 2024. The reduction aims to prevent space issues along the tight Macau layout, but the level of competition remains top-notch.

Torque sensors, reason of Mercedes absence from the Macao FIA GT world cup

Mercedes’ withdrawal is reportedly linked to its decision not to install torque sensors on its cars. Devices introduced by the FIA and made mandatory for Balance of Performance (BoP) adjustments. According to rumors, the German brand preferred to step back in order not to put private teams at a disadvantage, as they would have faced the demanding Macau weekend with limited experience using this new technology. The move also carries the undertone of a silent protest, since Mercedes already runs these systems in the American IMSA Championship. A decision that has certainly sparked debate, reigniting discussions about the consistency and fairness of the FIA’s technical regulations.

Porsche arrives with an impressive and diverse lineup. Ayhancan Güven and Laurin Heinrich will race under the Schumacher CLRT banner, while Dorian Boccolacci joins Phantom Global Racing. The German manufacturer will also have Alessio Picariello with Tempo by Absolute Racing, and the experienced Laurens Vanthoor with the same team. Those are further proof of Porsche’s determination to clinch the Macau crown.

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Porsche and Ferrari liveries for the GT race

Ferrari will be counting on Antonio Fuoco with AF Corse and Chinese driver Deng Yi for Winhere Motorsports. Both drivers will be at the wheel of the 296 GT3. BMW, meanwhile, lines up two heavyweights: Sheldon van der Linde with Team WRT and Raffaele Marciello with Rowe Racing.

Audi will have a strong Asian presence through the FAW Audi Sport Asia Team Phantom, fielding Christopher Haase and Joel Eriksson, along with Adderly Fong for UNO Racing. Lamborghini will also be represented, with Luca Engstler driving for Absolute Corse, while one of the most intriguing entries will be Edoardo Mortara, also with Absolute Corse but driving a private Lamborghini.

Despite the smaller grid, the FIA GT World Cup 2025 promises to deliver an event packed with quality, excitement, and fierce competition on one of the most challenging and iconic circuits in the GT world.