WEC: McLaren Teases its Le Mans Hypercar Ahead of 2027 Entry

McLaren has confirmed its return to the FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) in 2027, re-entering the top Hypercar class after decades away. Their announcement, “We’re back,” recalls their famous 1995 Le Mans win with the F1 GTR. This return follows a strong run in Formula 1, where McLaren won the 2023 constructors' title, its first since 1998. McLaren has not yet revealed which car it will race in 2027. CEO Zak Brown prefers the LMDh platform, which allows entry into both WEC and the IMSA SportsCar Championship. LMDh is also seen as more cost-effective. However, the team is still deciding between LMDh and LMH, leaving fans and rivals waiting for confirmation.

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There is growing interest in whether McLaren will also compete in the IMSA SportsCar Championship. A dual programme in WEC and IMSA would follow the path of rivals like Porsche and BMW. While this would boost McLaren’s global presence in endurance racing, the team has not announced any IMSA plans yet.

WE'RE BACK! 🤩@FIAWEC and @24hoursoflemans, see you on track in 2027 🧡#McLaren pic.twitter.com/EvnLhzTpCC

— McLaren (@McLarenF1) April 10, 2025

The 2027 entry gives McLaren three seasons under current WEC rules, extended through 2029. This stable period allows for focused development without immediate rule changes. It also sets the stage for direct battles with top teams like Ferrari, Porsche, and Toyota.

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McLaren’s arrival will increase the WEC Hypercar grid to 11 manufacturers by 2027. They will join brands like Ford and Genesis, both preparing for their own entries. McLaren already races in WEC's LMGT3 class with United Autosports, which recently secured second place in Qatar—showing the team’s growing commitment to endurance racing.