Ferrari 296 GT3: Redefining the Spirit of Competition

Streamlined, powerful, and purpose-built — Ferrari’s 296 GT3 marks the future of endurance racing

When Ferrari unveiled the 296 GT3, it wasn’t just introducing a new race car—it was unveiling a statement of intent. Designed to succeed the 488 GT3 Evo, one of the most decorated GT cars in Ferrari’s history, the 296 GT3 embodies the next generation of Maranello’s endurance-racing philosophy: a blend of innovation, accessibility, and relentless performance.

A New Chapter for Ferrari’s Racing Heritage

Developed by Ferrari Competizioni GT, the 296 GT3 took direct inspiration from the 296 GTB road car but was re-engineered from the ground up to comply with FIA GT3 regulations. At its core lies Ferrari’s groundbreaking 120-degree 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6—an engine that echoes the spirit of Ferrari’s racing lineage while embracing modern efficiency.

Unlike the road-going GTB, the GT3 version eliminates the hybrid electric system, which GT3 regulations prohibit. This required Ferrari engineers to rebalance the car’s weight distribution and cooling systems while maintaining the performance and responsiveness that define the brand. Despite losing the hybrid assist, the car’s power output sits around 600 horsepower, transmitted through a six-speed sequential gearbox mounted transversely for optimized handling and aerodynamics.

Engineering Excellence and Design Evolution

Every aspect of the 296 GT3 has been designed with purpose. The car’s sleek, aggressive silhouette draws subtle cues from Ferrari’s rich design language, yet its bodywork is tuned entirely for downforce and efficiency. The aerodynamic concept ensures a stable and predictable balance across various speeds, making it more forgiving for amateur drivers while providing pros with the precision they demand.

ORECA, the French motorsport engineering firm, was chosen to manufacture the chassis and support global customer operations. This collaboration reflects Ferrari’s goal of offering world-class reliability and serviceability for teams racing in endurance championships like IMSA, GT World Challenge, and the European Le Mans Series.

Inside the cockpit, Ferrari prioritized ergonomics and comfort. The layout allows quick control adjustments, improved visibility, and reduced driver fatigue over long stints. The car’s advanced cooling systems and upgraded air-conditioning also make it better suited for grueling 24-hour races where heat management can decide a podium.

Competition Debut and Early Triumphs

The 296 GT3 made its racing debut during the 2023 season, instantly capturing the attention of teams and fans alike. By 2024, it had already claimed one of the biggest prizes in endurance racing—the GTD Pro class victory at the Rolex 24 at Daytona with Risi Competizione. Piloted by Daniel Serra, Davide Rigon, Alessandro Pier Guidi, and James Calado, the win marked Ferrari’s triumphant return to the top step of the podium in one of the most competitive GT categories in the world.

That victory wasn’t an isolated success. Throughout 2024, Ferrari customer teams consistently finished at the sharp end of endurance races across Europe, Asia, and the Americas. The car’s blend of stability, tire management, and speed helped it rack up victories across various GT3 championships. By the end of the year, Ferrari had celebrated its 100th global win with the 296 GT3—a testament to its effectiveness and the speed with which it adapted to diverse circuits and regulations.

Evolution for 2025 and Beyond

For 2025, Ferrari introduced the 296 GT3 Evo—a refined iteration designed to enhance drivability and consistency. While the engine and core design remain unchanged, the Evo package brings improved cooling, more balanced aerodynamics, and greater durability over long races. Ferrari’s development goal was not merely to make the car faster, but easier to drive at the limit—essential in today’s multi-class endurance formats where adaptability often trumps outright pace.

The Legacy Continues

The Ferrari 296 GT3 stands as a bridge between tradition and technology—a racing machine that honors Ferrari’s heritage while propelling it into the future. Its success across multiple continents proves that Maranello’s formula for endurance competition remains potent: engineering precision, driver accessibility, and a deep understanding of what makes racing beautiful.

For Ferrari, the 296 GT3 isn’t just another race car—it’s a celebration of evolution. It reflects how the company continues to translate road-car innovation into motorsport dominance while ensuring that private teams, not just factory squads, can share in that glory.

As the checkered flags continue to wave over circuits like Spa, Daytona, and Le Mans, the 296 GT3 serves as a reminder that Ferrari’s passion for racing is as fiery as ever—and that the Prancing Horse still leads the charge where it matters most: on the track.