Peugeot Targets New Le Mans Hypercar for Future WEC Domination

Peugeot is setting its sights on building a new Le Mans Hypercar as part of a renewed, long-term focus in the FIA World Endurance Championship. The French brand is in open talks with the Automobile Club de l’Ouest and FIA about launching a replacement for the 9X8, with 2027 being discussed as a likely entry date.

This development follows clear signals from the management of parent company Stellantis, who have confirmed Peugeot’s dedication to staying in the WEC Hypercar class over the next several years.

Alain Favey, the new CEO of Peugeot, stressed that the brand is focused on long-term involvement in the series. He said that Peugeot remains determined to keep strengthening its name in motorsport, especially at Le Mans, where the marque has already secured three wins.

Jean-Marc Finot, who heads motorsport for Stellantis, further explained that Peugeot’s official commitment is confirmed until the end of 2026 but added that ongoing participation beyond that is very likely.

Peugeot’s journey in the latest era of WEC has included some challenges. The 9X8 debuted in 2022 and has so far not clinched a win in the Hypercar class, collecting just two podiums—one at Monza in 2023 and the other at Bahrain with the updated 9X8 in 2024.

The team has made major changes to the 9X8 design under evo joker rules, as the regulations restrict development to control costs. Any push for a completely new car under the current framework would also need formal approval from the rulemakers.

The life of the current Hypercar regulations was recently extended through 2029, giving manufacturers a wider window to plan major projects. There are hints that another extension could be announced soon, possibly at the annual Le Mans press conference.

Peugeot has not yet confirmed if it will use the opportunity to bring an all-new Hypercar to the grid, but the technical leadership at Peugeot Sport has indicated that any final technical strategy will depend heavily on regulatory changes.

The current 9X8 has undergone significant changes compared to its original concept. At first, it was built with equal-size wheels at the front and back, but the team followed Toyota’s lead in switching to wider rear tires and slimmer fronts to match updates in the regulations.

A new rear wing was also added, changing the car’s overall look and aerodynamic profile.

Technical director Olivier Jansonnie said Peugeot’s approach to improvement is step by step, aiming for stability as the car’s performance continues to trend upward.

Stellantis has acknowledged the difficulties faced by teams that entered the WEC when the rules were still in flux. They suggest that newcomers in 2026 or 2027 will benefit from more stable technical expectations.

Peugeot has made it clear that continued participation in the top class of endurance racing will involve both chasing results and adapting to future rule changes.

With Hypercar rules set for several more years, planning for a new challenger is underway as the brand looks to capture its first victory in the current WEC era.

Daniel Miller

Daniel Miller reports on Formula 1 Grand Prix weekends with race-day analysis, team-radio highlights, and point-standings updates. He explains power-unit upgrades, aerodynamic developments, and driver rivalries in straightforward, SEO-friendly language for a global F1 audience.