Colin Bönighausen will compete in the ADAC GT Masters in 2026
Great news! Colin Bönighausen will be driving for razoon – more than racing in the 2026 season of the ADAC GT Masters. This series features races at popular DTM events and the famous Truck Grand Prix at Nürburgring.
Following intensive negotiations over the winter, Colin Bönighausen from Isernhagen near Hanover has secured a promising deal in endurance racing, marking his breakthrough. With his entry into the ADAC GT Masters, the young racing driver has reached the pinnacle of racing a GT3. “Finally, a GT3 seat and a full season again,” says Colin, delighted with his new challenge. The ADAC GT Masters is the world‘s longest-running GT3 series and has been the premier league for super sports cars for 20 years.
The 21-year-old has chosen to join the Austrian racing team razoon – more than racing. “I already know the team from the 24-hour race in Dubai earlier this year, where we raced together for the first time.” His teammate will be Leo Pichler from Austria, who competed in the GT Masters last year and achieved several top finishes.
The Porsche 911 GT3 R features a 565 hp six-cylinder boxer engine and rear-wheel drive. Colin explains how this differs from the Cup car he has been driving in recent years: “The GT3 has more aerodynamics and downforce, which makes it faster through corners, and it has ABS. This means you can drive much more aggressively. Furthermore, the GT3 offers far more setup options, making it very interesting.”
The ADAC GT Masters calendar consists of six race weekends, each featuring two races. The standard race distance is one hour, with a driver change halfway through. “It’s a mix of sprint and 24-hour races. You have to drive fast in the first stint, but you also need to look after the tyres for the second driver.” So it’s not just about pure speed; you also need to have the right feel for the car and tyres, and be sensible during the race. These are all qualities that have distinguished Colin in the past. “I think I can do it!” he says confidently.
The season begins at the end of April with an official test day, followed by the first race of the season at the Red Bull Ring in Austria. The ADAC GT Masters will run as part of the DTM on four of the six race weekends. However, the biggest event is the race alongside the ADAC Truck Grand Prix at the Nürburgring, which is expected to attract over 130,000 spectators. “It’s a really great racing calendar. I’m also looking forward to the Salzburgring – it’s become something of a home track for me over the years.” Colin is now making the most of the time until the start of the season: “Sport, sport and more sport, plus mental training and, of course, simulator driving.”
Colin (m.) with Team Manager Christoph Huber (l.) and Team Principal Dominik Olbert (r.)
