Peugeot Unveils Striking New Livery for 2026 WEC Campaign, Honoring GTi Heritage
As the 2026 World Endurance Championship season approaches, Peugeot is signaling its intent with a bold new gaze for its 9X8 Le Mans Hypercar. The French manufacturer has unveiled a striking livery for its two entries, #93 and #94, that pays homage to the iconic Peugeot GTi models of the past whereas embracing a modern aesthetic. This rebranding comes as Peugeot prepares for a crucial season, particularly with the impending departure of fellow French competitor Alpine from the WEC at the end of the year, adding extra significance to their rivalry.
The new paint scheme, developed collaboratively by Peugeot Design and Peugeot Sport, features a dynamic interpretation of the brand’s signature “hypergraphs” – a visual element representing performance – alongside a nod to the instantly recognizable Peugeot claw motif. The color palette of white, red, and black is a deliberate tribute to the legendary Peugeot GTi lineage, first introduced with the 205 GTi in 1984. Notably, the “Okenit White” serves as the dominant color, mirroring its role as the launch color for the new Peugeot E-208 GTi, launched in June 2025, as showcased at the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
This isn’t merely a cosmetic change; Peugeot emphasizes the design’s connection to data, and performance. According to Peugeot, the color gradients within the livery are intended to evoke the speed and constant motion of the 9X8, while also representing the continuous stream of data points analyzed to optimize competitiveness in the fiercely contested WEC championship. The synergy between the track and the road is a key theme, with the livery mirroring the design language of the new Peugeot E-208 GTi, aiming to deliver a consistent brand experience for enthusiasts.
A Legacy of Performance: Peugeot’s GTi Roots
Peugeot’s GTi models have long been synonymous with accessible performance and driving enjoyment. The 205 GTi, launched in 1984, set a benchmark for hot hatches, and subsequent models like the 208 GTi and 308 GTi continued this tradition. The new E-208 GTi, boasting 206 kW (280 hp), represents the latest iteration of this performance philosophy, blending electric power with the GTi spirit. The decision to link the 9X8’s livery to this heritage is a clear statement of Peugeot’s commitment to its sporting DNA.
Matthias Hossann, Head of Design at Peugeot, explained the vision behind the new livery: “The new livery of the 9X8 is, further proof of the exceptional quality of the collaboration between Peugeot Design and Peugeot Sport. The hypergraphs embody the legendary three claws and their expression of performance and modernity, and the color scheme captures the legendary Peugeot GTi spirit. Our aim is to add an extra dose of emotion and joy to every lap that the 9X8 completes.”
Driver Lineup and 2026 Season Outlook
The Peugeot TotalEnergies team will field two 9X8 cars in the 2026 WEC season. The #93 car will be piloted by Stoffel Vandoorne, Paul di Resta, and Nick Cassidy, who also competes successfully in Formula E with Citroën. The #94 car will feature Loïc Duval, a 2013 WEC champion, alongside Malthe Jacobsen, who recently secured his third consecutive ALMS title, and Theo Pourchaire, a test driver for the Mercedes Formula 1 team.
The unveiling of the new livery took place ahead of Peugeot’s “GTi Year,” a celebration of the brand’s performance heritage. The 9X8 will debut its new look at the opening round of the 2026 WEC season, the 1,812 km of Qatar on March 28th. Alain Favery, CEO of Peugeot, emphasized the connection between the track and the road, stating, “The new livery of the 9X8 perfectly illustrates the brand’s commitment to continuing the legend of the Peugeot GTi: an elegant fusion of unique heritage and cutting-edge technological excellence. The livery expresses the synergy between the team’s performances on the track and soon on the road. The common goal is to offer our customers and the public the best driving experience à la Peugeot.”
Emmanuel Esnault, Team Principal of PEUGEOT TotalEnergies, added, “The unveiling of a new livery is always an important moment for the brand. It symbolizes the beginning of a new season and a new dynamic driven by new ambitions, while remaining firmly rooted in Peugeot’s tradition and identity. This livery embodies the spirit of the project and the close connection between the competition and the brand. It’s also a valuable opportunity to bring our partners together to share this important moment that ushers in the 2026 season. We look forward to presenting the new livery at the start of the championship in Qatar for the first time live on the racetrack.”
Looking Ahead: Peugeot’s Pursuit of Le Mans Glory
Peugeot’s return to the top echelons of endurance racing with the 9X8 represents a significant investment in motorsport. The team has been steadily improving its performance in the WEC, and the new livery signals a renewed focus and determination to challenge for victories. The ultimate goal, of course, remains a triumph at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, a race Peugeot last won in 2009 with Alex Wurz at the wheel. The 2026 season promises to be a thrilling chapter in Peugeot’s motorsport history, as the team strives to translate its heritage and innovation into on-track success. The departure of Alpine from the WEC adds a layer of intrigue, potentially reshaping the competitive landscape and intensifying the rivalry between Peugeot and other leading manufacturers.
The 2026 season will be a critical test for Peugeot, as they aim to build on their progress and challenge for the championship title. With a talented driver lineup, a striking new livery, and a renewed commitment to performance, the French manufacturer is poised to make a significant impact on the World Endurance Championship.
The next major event for Peugeot TotalEnergies will be the official pre-season test, the Prologue, at Qatar’s Lusail International Circuit on February 28th and 29th, 2026, providing a first glimpse of the 9X8 in its new colors and a crucial opportunity for the team to prepare for the opening round of the championship.
What are your thoughts on Peugeot’s new livery? Share your opinions and predictions for the 2026 WEC season in the comments below!