The Lusail International Circuit in Qatar will host the opening round of the 2026/27 24H Series Middle East Trophy, Creventic has announced.
Taking place across Friday, 11 December, and Saturday, 12 December, the Michelin 8H Qatar event will be the curtain-raising race meeting for the three round championship and ensure the entire Middle East Trophy season will be contested within the Gulf region.
The full calendar has not yet been finalised, but Creventic has revealed that the Dubai Autodrome and Yas Marina Circuit in the UAE will both feature.
Cars and kit will be able to be shipped to the Middle East early in the winter, then remaining in the Gulf region during December and January – a major logistical benefit, especially to teams looking to stay in the region to contest the 2027 Dubai 24 Hours.
Testing opportunities will also be available and, for the race in Lusail specifically, there will be two CR Track Days booked ahead of the event on Wednesday, 9 December, and Thursday, 10 December.
“We are very proud to announce this new race in Qatar,” said Helen Roukens, general manager at Creventic.
“Over the past years we have built a strong and successful foundation in the Middle East with our races in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, which were very well supported by teams and drivers. With the addition of Qatar, we aim to offer our competitors a complete and attractive winter racing programme.”
Abdulaziz Al Mohannadi, CEO at Lusail International Circuit, added: “We are pleased to welcome the Michelin 24H Series Middle East Trophy to Lusail International Circuit for the inaugural Michelin 8H QATAR. Hosting this endurance event reflects our continued commitment to bringing international motorsport to Qatar.
“As a venue that regularly stages major global competitions, LIC is proud to host the opening round of the 2026/2027 Middle East Trophy season and contribute to Qatar’s position as a destination for international sporting events. We look forward to delivering a well-organised experience for teams, drivers and partners this December.”
In addition to building its presences in the Middle East, Creventic also remains firmly committed to a return to the far east in the future. Via its partnership with the Chinese Endurance Championship – for which the 8H Qatar event will act as the final round of in 2026 – Creventic believes “there are many strong opportunities within the Asian market” for it to act on.
Image courtesy of 24H Series
