Maranello-based Ferrari is experiencing a golden era in motorsport, with the new 296 GT3 supercar leading the charge. This vehicle, designed for endurance racing, has quickly become a symbol of excellence, achieving significant victories in prestigious competitions such as the 24 Hours of Le Mans and Daytona. Building on last year's successes, including their second consecutive win at Le Mans, Ferrari aims to continue its dominance in both Formula One and endurance racing this season. With seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton joining Scuderia Ferrari alongside Charles Leclerc, expectations are high for victories in both drivers’ and constructors’ championships. Meanwhile, the IMSA SportsCar Championship showcases the potential of the 296 GT3, which continues to demonstrate its technological superiority.

In recent years, Ferrari has redefined its approach to motorsport, focusing on innovation and engineering prowess. The 296 GT3, based on the production 296 GTB coupe, exemplifies this commitment. Designed not only for gentleman drivers but also for superior track performance, the GT3 features a powerful 3.0-liter V6 engine paired with a six-speed sequential transmission. Unlike its road-going sibling, the GT3 eschews an electric motor to adhere to technical regulations, relying instead on a lightweight aluminum frame for enhanced performance. These modifications underscore Ferrari’s dedication to crafting a race-ready machine capable of excelling in grueling endurance races.

The success of the 296 GT3 was evident during the 2024 season, where it claimed victory at the iconic 24 Hours of Daytona, marking Ferrari's first triumph there since 2014. Additionally, the car secured wins at the Nürburgring 24 Hours and the hypercar class at Le Mans. Antonello Coletta, Ferrari’s Global Head of Endurance, emphasized the strategic importance of these achievements, noting that they reinforce the brand's technological leadership. Racing environments like Daytona serve as test beds for developing cutting-edge solutions, providing valuable feedback that enhances future iterations of the 296 GT3.

This year's IMSA SportsCar Championship further highlighted the capabilities of the 296 GT3. In the GTD Pro class, Dragonspeed's No. 81 Ferrari maintained a strong pace throughout much of the race, while Inception Racing’s entry consistently performed at the front of the field in the GTD category. Although podium finishes were narrowly missed, the results provided critical insights and experience that will undoubtedly benefit Ferrari’s efforts at the upcoming 24 Hours of Le Mans in June. These races play a pivotal role in enhancing Ferrari's visibility within the consumer market, strengthening its reputation as a leader in endurance motorsport.

Beyond the race track, Ferrari's achievements resonate deeply with enthusiasts worldwide. The synergy between racing success and brand prestige enriches Ferrari's storied history, drawing new admirers to the marque. As Antonello Coletta aptly stated, the connection to elite endurance motorsport reaffirms Ferrari's legacy, bridging tradition with modern innovation. With eyes set firmly on the horizon, Ferrari continues to push boundaries, ensuring its place at the pinnacle of automotive competition.