Gran Turismo World Series Opens in Milan

The Gran Turismo World Series 2026 opened at Teatro Lirico Giorgio Gaber in Milan with a sold-out audience, marking the series’ first World Series round in Italy. The opening round featured the season’s Nations Cup and Manufacturers Cup and streamed live in Gran Turismo 7 and on the series’ official live channels.

The Manufacturers Cup began at 15:00 UTC and the Nations Cup followed at 17:30 UTC. Both events were staged inside the historic theater a short walk from Milan’s Duomo, allowing the live audience to see the competition while remote viewers followed the races through multiple broadcast options and in-game streams.

Competitors included former world champion Valerio Gallo competing before a home crowd, reigning Nations Cup champion Jose Serrano leading Team Porsche, and Takuma Miyazono, who arrived in Milan after competing at the Nürburgring 24 Hours and seeks additional world titles. Pol Urra represented Team Mazda after a strong 2025 season. Eighteen-year-old Samuel Moreno made his World Series debut, and Team Subaru added British driver Callum Moxon to its lineup. Drivers represented nations across Europe, Asia, Oceania and the Americas.

The Manufacturers Cup scores brand performance across teams of drivers, with points contributing to manufacturer standings. Team Porsche entered the event as the defending manufacturer champion. The Nations Cup ranks drivers under national banners, with individual finishes contributing to national standings.

Organizers offered in-game engagement features for remote audiences. Players watching streams in Gran Turismo 7 could unlock exclusive Stealth Model race cars, submit race-winner predictions, and enter a Lap Time Challenge set at Autodromo Nazionale Monza.

Event information, including full schedules and driver lists, was available on the Milan event page and official social channels. Results from the Milan round will be added to the season standings for both championships and will affect ranking and points allocation for the remainder of the 2026 calendar.