SIM Maranello Takes on Milan with the Nations Cup Competitors
The countdown has officially begun. On May 23, Milan will host the opening round of the Gran Turismo World Series 2026, one of the most prestigious events in international sim racing, and SIM Maranello will be on the grid with several of its drivers ready to compete on the world stage.
The event also marks a historic milestone for the championship: for the first time ever, the World Series will take place in Italy, turning Milan into the global hub of Gran Turismo competition ahead of the international rounds in Tokyo and Singapore, and the World Finals scheduled for December in Japan
SIM Maranello Drivers Ready for the Nations Cup
The Nations Cup brings together 12 elite drivers representing their respective countries and territories in a competition where speed, strategy, and precision make the difference in every corner.
Among the competitors qualified for the GT World Series 2026 Round 1 – Milan are SIM Maranello drivers:
- Valerio Gallo
- Samuel Cardinal
- Guy Barbara
A Spectacular Format: Qualifying, Sprint Race and Final
The Nations Cup format promises an action-packed evening from start to finish.
The competition will open with a single-lap qualifying time trial, using the same car and circuit featured in the final race. The results of this session will determine the starting grid for the Sprint Race.
Historic racing cars from the 1950s and earlier will then take center stage in the sprint event. Drivers will select their cars based on qualifying results, adding another strategic layer to the competition.
The final race will award World Series points to the top six finishers and crown the winner of the Milan event.
Live Broadcast Schedule
The event will take place on May 23:
- Opening Show — 7:30 PM (CEST)
- Race Start — 7:50 PM (CEST)
The official live broadcast will be available on the Gran Turismo World Series YouTube channel, where fans from around the world will be able to follow every race live.
SIM Maranello at the Heart of International Sim Racing
Competing in the Gran Turismo World Series means racing against the world’s best drivers in one of the most competitive and prestigious environments in sim racing.
For SIM Maranello, this represents an important opportunity to bring its expertise, passion, and racing identity into one of the most iconic championships in the esports and virtual motorsport scene.
SIM Maranello drivers will take to the track carrying the team’s competitive spirit and dedication in front of the global Gran Turismo community.
Milan is ready for the spotlight. The track is waiting for its stars.
