Hyundai, the world’s third-largest automobile manufacturer, unveiled its new motorsport initiative with its luxury brand Genesis in September. Yesterday, Genesis Hyundai Magma Racing was officially introduced at a launch event held in Dubai.
Hyundai Motorsport President Cyril Abiteboul will take the reins as Genesis Hyundai Magma Racing team principal, following his success in the FIA World Rally Championship with Thierry Neuville.
“The official launch of Genesis Hyundai Magma Racing is a major milestone,” said Abiteboul. “As the backbone of Hyundai Motor Group’s global motorsport activities, Hyundai Motorsport will play a vital role in this ambitious programme. We are taking our expertise in circuit racing to a whole new level,” he added.
Reigning FIA World Endurance Champion André Lotterer and two-time IMSA title winner Luis ‘Pipo’ Derani have been announced as the first two drivers for Genesis Hyundai Magma Racing. Their focus will be on technical development and simulator duties throughout 2025, leading up to a competitive challenge for Genesis Hyundai Magma Racing in 2026.
As the team prepares for its full WEC entry in 2026, Genesis Hyundai Magma Racing will also collaborate with IDEC SPORT to contest an LMP2 race in the 2025 European Le Mans Series. The team will feature a roster of promising talent, including Logan Sargeant, Jamie Chadwick, and 19-year-old Mathys Jaubert.
Genesis Hyundai Magma Racing will establish a permanent strategic base at Circuit Paul Ricard in the south of France, benefiting from the proximity to endurance specialists ORECA Motorsport and IDEC SPORT, facilitating further collaboration and technical development.
