New helmet and big ambitions – the start of the GT4 season

This coming weekend, the new season of the GT4 European Series gets underway at the Circuit Paul Ricard in the south of France. Among the competitors is 18-year-old racing driver Thomas Rackl from Berching, who will be competing for the Borusan Otomotiv Motorsport team.

The GT4 European Series is regarded as one of the strongest GT4 championships in the world – so the competition is fierce. Rackl is nevertheless heading to France with clear ambitions:
“We’ll give it our all and try to be right up there at the front,” says the young driver. “In motor racing, there are many factors that you can’t fully control. But we’re focusing on our performance and want to fight for top positions.”

Thomas Rackl’s new racing helmet is certainly turning heads at the start of the season. The custom-designed model from Bell Helmets is truly one of a kind – featuring glittering lettering, humorous details and personal symbols.

On the front is a small espresso cup bearing the word ‘Espresso’, whilst the back features quotes from racing legend Steve McQueen.

“A helmet isn’t just a piece of kit; it’s an expression of your personality,” explains Rackl. “In a way, it tells my story – and showcases the people and brands that have been with me along the way.”

Rackl has a long and intensive period of preparation behind him. The young Berchinger used the winter months to work on his fitness, technique and focus – with the aim of starting the new season fully prepared. “I’ve trained hard over the winter and I’m highly motivated. Now it’s all about putting that work into practice on the track.”

Rackl is particularly grateful for the support of his partners, who make his season possible: Juramondo in Neumarkt – the specialist DIY store –; Mayer Motorsport from Berg, which specialises in high-quality motorsport wiring harnesses; and Scuderia Auto Neuser from Nuremberg, with whom Rackl will also be competing in a number of races this year.

In addition, the young driver can look forward to receiving support from the ADAC Sport Foundation, which has been mentoring and supporting him as a promising young talent for the third year running.

“Each of these partners plays an important role – not just financially, but also on a personal level,” emphasises Rackl. “Without this fantastic support, the season wouldn’t have been possible in this form. That’s why all the sponsors and supporters have found a place on my helmet – as a sincere token of my gratitude.”

With a new helmet, intensive preparation and strong support, Thomas Rackl is starting the 2026 GT4 season in high spirits – an important step in his still-young but promising career.