Mercedes takes three special designs to Le Mans - they will also be in the game
The third Mercedes will ride alongside two FIA WEC permanent participants in the Qatar flag colours when the Qatar team first participates in a prestigious enterprise. After Iron Lynx and the QIMF have already joined together in the Le Mans European series, they are another turning point for the Middle East nation in northern France.
In 2026, Abdulla Al Khelaifi, who qualified for field position in LMGT3 in both ELMS races, Katar team colleague Julian Hanses and Giuliano Alesi, son of the legendary former driver of Formula 1 Jean Alesi, will be placed in the number 62 car.
"It is a great pleasure for us that the Silver Arrows can return to the 24-hour Le Mans race for the second year in a row," said the boss and CEO of the Iron Lynx Andrea Piccini team. "I particularly like that we present three different personalities for each car. We are also pleased with our partnership with the Qatar team. The first participation in Le Mans is always unique and I really hope it will be an unforgettable experience."
"I am very pleased to see three Mercedes-AMG LMGT3 cars again on the starting grid of this year's Le Mans 24-hour race," repeated Stefan Wendl, head of the Mercedes-AMG Motorsport customer race. "The continuation of the Silver Arrow story in 2026 through the colours of all three cars after our debut last year underlines the special importance this race has in our heritage of motoring sport. Based on the experience gained last year, we try to confirm our sporting progress with a strong result."
In addition to his performance alongside Iron Lynx in the ELMS competition, the Qatar team enjoyed recent successes in a series of 24 hours - including victory in its classes in 24 hours Dubai, 6 hours Abu Dhabi and 12 hours Mugello.
"The participation of the Qatar team in the 24-hour Le Mans race is an important moment for Qatar's motorsport and reflects the country's growing presence on the international stage," commented Abdulrahman bin Abdullatif Al Mannai, President of QIMF and Lusail International Circuit.
"This programme is more than just participation in a race - it represents a long-term investment in the development of racing talents, building international experience and creating a path for future generations to compete at the highest level of motor sport.
"Through our partnership with Iron Lynx and cooperation with Mercedes-AMG, we create opportunities to learn, grow and build a stronger basis for Qatar in global endurance races. We are proud to see the Qatar team compete in one of the most iconic events of motoring sport, and look forward to what this journey can achieve."
Three Iron Lynx color schemes were revealed today in conjunction with Le Mans Ultimate, the official game of FIA World Endurance Championship and 24 hours Le Mans. Colors will soon be available for use in the game.