Ferrari to Unveil 296 Challenge Stradale After Two Decades
After more than 20 years, Ferrari is set to bring back a road‑legal version of its Challenge race car.
Background to the Challenge Stradale
Since 1993 Ferrari has run one‑make championships, beginning with the 348 and evolving through the F355 and later models. In 2003 the marque released the 360 Challenge Stradale, a road‑legal counterpart to its race car, which at the time was pitted against the 996.2 generation 911 GT3 RS.
Return of the Stradale Concept
After a hiatus of more than two decades, Ferrari is reportedly preparing the 296 Challenge Stradale. Development has taken about four years, and the car is expected to be revealed before the year ends, according to The Supercar Blog.
Planned Debut
The launch is scheduled for the Finali Mondiali gathering at Circuit de Barcelona‑Catalunya, which will also host the closing round of the 2026 Ferrari Challenge season (November 17‑23). The car is set to be unveiled on the 21st of November.
Specifications and Pricing
Early sightings in February showed a camouflaged prototype cruising the streets of Maranello, featuring a distinctive aero package and a large rear wing. The Stradale is said to omit the 296’s plug‑in hybrid system, making it similar to the race‑spec 296 Challenge that has been competing for roughly three years.
Without the electric components, the vehicle should lose at least 300 lb, targeting a curb weight near 3,000 lb compared with the hybrid coupe’s 3,500 lb. Power is expected to sit around 690 hp, though rumors suggest a peak of 720 hp, potentially exceeding the race car’s output.
Pricing is reported to start at €320,000, roughly $358,000.
Looking Ahead
Ferrari may have additional track‑focused models in the pipeline, hinting that 2027 could bring further additions to the Prancing Horse’s lineup.
