Three weeks after the CrowdStrike 24 Hours of Spa, the Sprint Cup returns to centre stage next weekend at Misano (18–20 July). Here are five reasons to join us on the Adriatic coast for what promises to be an action-packed event.
SUN, SEA AND GT3
If you like the idea of combining a weekend watching GT racing with a beach holiday on the Adriatic, this is a dream opportunity. The circuit is located just 3 kilometres from Misano Adriatico, a popular resort town that overlooks the ocean. The local restaurants specialise in seafood, and the streets are always bustling with tourists during the evening. It’s also very close to San Marino, one of the world’s smallest independent republics and a UNESCO World Heritage site.
The beaches of the Adriatic coast offer something for everyone: fully equipped resorts, water sports, sun loungers, bars and seafront clubs. You can travel from coast to coast by bike using the ‘EcoTrails’, green mobility routes designed for walking, cycling, horseback riding and even electric scooters. There are also a variety of theme parks – including Aquafan, Italia in Miniatura, Fiabilandia, and Zoo Safari – so there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
A WORLD-CLASS GRID
The GT World Challenge Sprint Cup is booming this season, with more than 40 cars expected to make the trip to Misano. We could see the series’ biggest-ever grid, a record set at the same track in 2023. But it’s not just about numbers: there’s a huge amount of quality and variety.
Fans will be especially spoilt for choice when it comes to machinery, with 10 different brands represented. Take your pick from Italian favourites Ferrari and Lamborghini, German heavyweights Audi, BMW, Mercedes-AMG and Porsche, elite British marques Aston Martin and McLaren, and American manufacturers Chevrolet and Ford.
As for the drivers, they represent some of the best international talent available. In addition to local star Valentino Rossi (BMW), fans will also know the likes of Maro Engel (Mercedes-AMG), Arthur Leclerc (Ferrari), Marvin Kirchhöfer (McLaren) and Jordan Pepper (Lamborghini) to name just a few. There’s quality throughout the field, so the racing tends to be hard, fair and incredibly competitive.
RACING AFTER DARK
Misano is famous for its nightlife, with plenty of popular clubs to choose from in the region. At the circuit, GT World Challenge will bring its own variety of evening entertainment, with a late start to Saturday’s race adding extra excitement.
With the start scheduled for 20:15, the lights will go out 30 minutes before sunset – and conditions will alter dramatically over the course of the one-hour contest. Indeed, by the time the chequered flag falls we will be able to enjoy the spectacular sight of headlights cutting through the darkness.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a GT racing expert who can identify the cars by their engine sound, this is the perfect opportunity to experience something special from the grandstands.
ROSSI GOES FOR THREE IN A ROW
This event marks the only Sprint Cup outing this year for Valentino Rossi – and he's chosen the perfect location. After all, Misano is Vale's home circuit and the Team WRT driver is on a roll after taking extremely popular wins in 2023 and 2024.
He has a fantastic chance to make it three in a row, particularly with fellow Misano master Raffaele Marciello sharing the #46 BMW. Ranked among the best sportscar drivers in the world, Lello also has two wins at the track (2020 and 2023). Carrying the distinctive blue and yellow colour scheme, the #46 crew is guaranteed to add extra interest both on and off the track.
LOADS MORE TO ENJOY
Misano promises to be one of the busiest weekends of the season. On the circuit, there will be support action from the GT2 European Series powered by Pirelli, the GT4 European Series powered by RAFA Racing Club, Porsche Carrera Cup France and the Clio Cup Series. As ever, there will also be fan activities – including music and DJ sets – as well as food and drink stalls.
Petrolheads will have even more to enjoy. Misano sits at the very heart of the legendary Motor Valley, a network that also includes museums and factories housing legendary brands such as Ferrari, Lamborghini, Maserati, Ducati and Pagani. This is the perfect base from which to discover the Motor Valley and its automotive excellence.
Tickets for the event are available now, starting at just 10€ for Friday and 25€ for single-day tickets on Saturday and Sunday. A full weekend ticket costs 40€, while a full three-day pass is available for 45€. Click here for more information.