From MotoGP legend to GT racing contender, Valentino Rossi continues to prove that his passion for speed has never faded. The iconic #46 returns to the GT World Challenge Europe grid in 2026, ready to fight for victories behind the wheel of the powerful BMW M4 GT3 EVO.

After retiring from MotoGP at the end of the 2021 season, Valentino Rossi began a new chapter in his legendary racing career. Instead of stepping away from competition, “The Doctor” moved to four-wheel racing and quickly adapted to the demanding world of GT motorsport.

In the 2026 season, Rossi will continue his journey in GT World Challenge Europe with Team WRT BMW, driving the famous #46 BMW M4 GT3 EVO. This season marks another important milestone as Rossi takes on a full campaign against some of the fastest GT drivers and manufacturers in the world.

A New Challenge with Team WRT BMW

Valentino Rossi will not face the challenge alone. The Italian racing icon will share the BMW M4 GT3 EVO with talented BMW M Motorsport drivers, creating a strong combination of experience and young speed.

For the Sprint Cup, Rossi will compete alongside Max Hesse, while the Endurance Cup will see Rossi, Hesse, and Dan Harper sharing driving duties during longer races.

The partnership brings together Rossi’s decades of racing experience with the raw pace of BMW’s young generation of GT specialists.

BMW M4 GT3 EVO: Rossi’s Weapon for 2026

The car carrying Rossi’s famous #46 number is the BMW M4 GT3 EVO, one of BMW Motorsport’s most advanced GT racing machines.

Powered by a 3.0-liter twin-turbo inline-six engine, the M4 GT3 EVO produces around 590 horsepower depending on Balance of Performance regulations. The car features a sequential racing gearbox, rear-wheel drive, advanced aerodynamics, and race-developed suspension designed for the toughest GT competitions around the world.

Built for both sprint races and endurance events, the BMW M4 GT3 EVO is ready to battle against legendary GT machines such as the Ferrari 296 GT3, Porsche 911 GT3 R, Mercedes-AMG GT3 EVO, Lamborghini Huracán GT3, and Aston Martin Vantage GT3.

From Two Wheels to Four Wheels

Moving from MotoGP to GT racing was never an easy challenge. In motorcycle racing, Rossi relied on his incredible bike control, race instincts, and fearless battles on track. In GT racing, the game is different — drivers must manage tires, work with teammates, understand strategy, and maintain consistency over long distances.

However, Rossi’s experience at the highest level of motorsport has helped him become a competitive GT driver. His ability to understand racing lines, braking points, and race situations has allowed him to continue fighting against professional GT racers.

The Mission: Fight for More Victories

For Valentino Rossi, GT racing is not simply a hobby after MotoGP. It is a new challenge and another opportunity to chase success.

With the legendary #46, the BMW M4 GT3 EVO, and the support of Team WRT BMW, Rossi enters the 2026 GT World Challenge Europe season with one goal to compete at the highest level and fight for podium finishes.

Valentino Rossi may have left MotoGP, but the racing spirit of the #46 continues to shine on four wheels.