As the World Endurance Championship (WEC) looks to expand its calendar for 2024, three iconic circuits have emerged as potential returnees: Circuit of The Americas (COTA), Interlagos, and Silverstone.
These tracks, which have previously hosted WEC races, are under consideration as the series aims to return to a traditional eight-race calendar.
COTA
Last hosting a WEC race in 2020, COTA seems to be the favorite to take the North American slot on the schedule, replacing Sebring. Although WEC boss Frederic Lequien has not confirmed any new or returning races for next year, COTA is considered a strong contender for the U.S. round.
A summer date for COTA has been suggested, marking the start of the non-European leg of the series, which would include Fuji and Bahrain.
While a return to Sebring seems unlikely due to the introduction of a new season-opener in Qatar, COTA’s possible inclusion in the 2024 calendar would keep the series’ presence in the United States.
As the series continues to grow, the addition of a second race in the U.S., such as the one proposed by Roger Penske at Indianapolis, could also be considered in the future.
Interlagos
Interlagos, which featured on the WEC calendar from 2012 to 2014, looks set to replace Portimao when the series returns to an eight-race schedule in 2024, source Auto Hebdo.
However, WEC remains cautious due to issues with the promotion of the last scheduled race at the Brazilian circuit, which ultimately led to its cancellation.
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Despite this, Interlagos could provide an exciting addition to the WEC calendar, offering a challenging and historic circuit for teams and drivers to tackle.
The Brazilian fan base is passionate about endurance racing, and a successful event at Interlagos would undoubtedly boost the series’ profile in South America.
Silverstone
Silverstone, which hosted WEC races from 2012 to 2019, is another circuit being considered for a return to the calendar.
The British venue is understood to have proposed a May date for its comeback, and ongoing talks with WEC CEO Frederic Lequien suggest that a return could be on the cards for 2025.
Silverstone’s managing director, Stuart Pringle, expressed enthusiasm for hosting the WEC again, citing the strong fan interest and potential to develop the event into a unique sporting and entertainment weekend.
Lequien has acknowledged the importance of the UK market for the series and emphasized the need to balance the calendar with a variety of circuits and locations.
A return to Silverstone would mark the largest WEC schedule since 2017, with the possibility of expanding to nine rounds. However, Lequien also expressed caution about growing too quickly, keeping in mind team budgets and logistics.
