New Ferrari and new driver: Emil Frey Racing ready for the 2026 DTM

• Swiss team to run two Ferrari 296 GT3 Evo
• Sports car specialist Matteo Cairoli joins the team
• Fourth DTM season for Dutchman Thierry Vermeulen

Munich. Emil Frey Racing has added Matteo Cairoli to its line-up for the 2026 DTM season. The Italian will take his place at the wheel of a brand-new Ferrari 296 GT3 Evo, bringing with him a wealth of experience gained in countless races on the international motorsport scene. His illustrious CV includes starts in the FIA World Endurance Championship WEC and victory at the legendary ADAC Ravenol 24h Nürburgring in 2021. The second Ferrari 296 GT3 Evo will be driven by Thierry Vermeulen (NL). The Swiss team will be contesting its fourth season in the DTM, and currently has six race wins to its name.

Cairoli has been racing in various international championships for over ten years, during which time he has amassed an impressive amount of experience. "I am very grateful to Emil Frey Racing and proud to have been given this opportunity," says the 29-year-old, who lines up in a Ferrari sporting the livery of DTM series partner BWT. "I believe we can form a strong package together. As both the DTM and the car are new to me, my main focus will be on learning as fast as possible. I can hardly wait to get started, to enjoy every moment, and to show what we are capable of out on the track!"

Team-mate Vermeulen has been driving a Ferrari for Emil Frey Racing in the DTM since 2023. Last year, he claimed three podiums and twice started from pole position. "I am so thrilled to be starting for Emil Frey Racing in our fourth year together," says the 23-year-old, whose Ferrari will beam in the Red Bull colours, a nod to the Red Bull Racing design from Formula 1. "I really feel part of the family. We have worked very closely together over the winter. We went back over the past few years and analysed our weaknesses and strengths. We are now ready for a new season together."

The Ferrari 296 GT3 Evo represents an extensive upgrade to the Italian sports car manufacturer's GT3 flagship. The most striking changes are to the car's aerodynamics, thanks to the modified chassis. Lorenz Frey-Hilti, team principal at Emil Frey Racing, recognises the challenges they will face this year: "There are many new factors in the 2026 season: a new Evo package from Ferrari, new Pirelli tyres, and a new driver in our team. We are happy to welcome Matteo Cairoli to the team. With his wealth of experience and his speed, he is going to be a valuable addition for us."