Le Mans Classic Series Brings Iconic Machines to the 10th Edition of Estoril Classics
Estoril Classics returns to the Autódromo do Estoril from 18 to 20 September 2026 for its 10th edition, with the entry lists for the competitions organised by the Le Mans Classic Series – the new name for Peter Auto’s historic racing series – confirming an exceptional line-up. Legendary prototypes, historic GTs and Touring cars that played a defining role in international motorsport will return to the Portuguese circuit for a weekend that promises to be a true journey through the history of motor racing.
The spectacle of these machines – which are, in reality, cars engaged in fiercely contested races fought down to the smallest margin – offers fans a rare opportunity to see in action cars that defined entire eras of motorsport. Each category brings together cars of exceptional historical significance, driven by competitors with an intimate understanding of their machinery and no hesitation in pushing these ageing thoroughbreds to their limits. Despite their years, they continue to deliver a unique and captivating spectacle.
CLASSIC ENDURANCE RACING 1
The Classic Endurance Racing 1 grid once again brings together some of the most iconic prototypes of the 1960s and 1970s, in one of the most eagerly anticipated categories of the programme. Among the highlights is the Porsche 908 LH, making its Estoril Classics debut and representing one of the Weissach marque’s early attempts to tame the long straights of Le Mans.
On a grid where the Lola T70s and Ford GT40s almost go unnoticed, particular attention should be paid to the return of the ever-impressive Porsche 917 K, a car that left an indelible mark on the history of endurance racing and which once again captivated the large crowds that flock to this landmark event last year.
These two dream machines are joined by two equally historic examples: a Porsche 908/3 Martini, formerly raced by Helmut Marko, and a Porsche 908/3 Gulf, formerly raced by Brian Redman. Both cars competed in some of Europe’s most prestigious races before eventually returning to the historic racing scene.
CLASSIC ENDURANCE RACING 2
The second Classic Endurance Racing grid features a selection of prototypes and GT cars that defined the competitive landscape from the mid-1970s through to the early 1980s. Among the highlights is the Lola T600, regarded by many as the first Group C car, returning to Estoril to evoke the aerodynamic revolution that marked the emergence of the category.
The grid also features cars such as the Porsche 935, TOJ SC302 and Chevron B36 – machines that competed in the great endurance races and remain important technical and historical benchmarks to this day.
ENDURANCE RACING LEGENDS
One of the major attractions of Estoril Classics will once again be Endurance Racing Legends, bringing together prototypes and GT cars from the 1990s and 2000s. Among the most iconic cars is the Panoz LMP1 Roadster S, one of the most distinctive prototypes of its era, renowned for its front-engined configuration and unmistakable styling. It will make its first appearance in competition at the Autódromo do Estoril.
Alongside a field featuring numerous Porsche and Ferrari GT cars, the presence of a Pescarolo C60 is another major highlight. A symbol of French engineering, it was a leading contender in some of the most memorable editions of the 24 Hours of Le Mans. The grid also features a DBA 03S, which began life as a Reynard before becoming known as a Zytek, and a Courage C65 – two prototypes that were regular competitors in European endurance racing.
HERITAGE TOURING CUP
The Heritage Touring Cup returns with a grid featuring some of the most charismatic touring cars of the 1970s and 1980s, many of which raced at the Autódromo do Estoril. Among the highlights are the BMW 3.0 CSLs, cars that defined an era of intense battles in the European championships, and the Ford Capri RS 3100s, icons of Ford’s factory racing programme.
The presence of these models, joined by Ford Escort RS 1600s and BMW 3.5 CSLs, ensures a varied and technically rich grid, capable of recreating the atmosphere of the great touring car battles. This was certainly the case at the Autódromo do Estoril in 1977 and 1978, when the European Touring Car Championship visited the historic Portuguese circuit.
SIXTIES’ ENDURANCE & 2.0L CUP
One of the most evocative moments of the weekend will be the Sixties’ Endurance race, which will incorporate the 2.0L Cup field, bringing together GT cars built before 1966. Among the highlights are the Shelby Cobra Daytona Coupés, of which just six were built and which were conceived to take on the Ferrari 250 GTO, and the Jaguar E-Types, icons of British elegance and competitiveness.
The grid also includes cars such as the Lotus Elan 26R and Morgan Plus 4 Super Sports, further underlining the diversity of machinery that defined competition during the 1960s.
Also incorporated into the category will be the 2.0L Cup, featuring two-litre Porsche 911s that represent the beginnings of the German marque’s sporting lineage. Bringing the two categories together will create a more varied field, opening up new possibilities for on-track battles and adding to the spectacle for spectators watching from the grandstands or the paddock.
HOW TO ATTEND
Tickets for Estoril Classics 2026 are available through BOL and FNAC, continuing the strong demand seen at recent editions. Weekend passes, which have traditionally sold out before the event gets underway, are already close to reaching capacity. Admission is free for children and young people up to the age of 15, provided they are accompanied by an adult, with a maximum of two children or young people per adult.
Parking in the gravel car park will be free of charge for Paddock ticket holders, subject to availability, while access to the grandstand on the main straight will remain free for all spectators.
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