WEC looks to add success handicaps for Hypercar in 2026

A success handicap system looks set to be introduced to the FIA WEC’s Hypercar class next year, according to the newly published sporting regulations for the 2026 season.

Article 6.2.2 in the document states: “Success handicap [ballast] may be imposed for Hypercar and LMGT3 in the championship. It will be in effect at all competitions except the 24 Hours of Le Mans. The calculations system will be determined by the WEC Committee before the first time session of the Prologue.

“This lap time handicap will be transformed into mass and/or power at the ACO/FIA’s discretion, which will be communicated in the BOP table sent by the WEC Committee before each competition.”

The success handicap system is already in use in LMGT3 to keep the action close, with teams handed ballast at each race aside from Le Mans based on championship position and race results.

The addition of the system to the top class is understood to have been a topic of discussion between the rulemakers and manufacturers in recent months. It represents another tool to balance the field along with the Balance of Performance system, which is set to be reworked for 2026.

In addition, the LMGT3 tire allocation rules have been updated for next year. Section 6.5.4 states that teams will be granted six additional tires for six- and eight-hour races, and an extra eight for the 10-hour race in Qatar.

This effectively means that teams will be able to single-stint each set of Goodyears during races next year. They will also have an additional set at their disposal for use in free practice.

RACER understands that the American constructor’s Eagle Hard compound – which was introduced this year to improve tire life at more aggressive circuits – may no longer be needed after this year’s season finale as a result of this change.

2026 WEC Sporting Regulations