Maserati is officially making a return to the circuit with its MC20 GT2, picking up where the MC12 left off with a debut in the Fanatec GT2 European Series Championship next year. Final details will come closer to its first track outing following the implementation of Balance of Performance, but reassuringly, the racer remains true to the road car in many respects.

At its core is the same 3-litre twin-turbocharged Nettuno V6, featuring Maserati’s trick Twin Combustion technology for improved efficiency, increasing output and reducing fuel consumption. A final power output post-BoP is yet to be announced, but Maserati is currently developing a base unit with the same 621bhp output as the standard model.

As with the road car, a Dallara-sourced carbonfibre monocoque helps reduce kerb weight and boost rigidity, with all-round double-wishbone suspension also carried across. Similarities are fewer from there though, with the standard eight-speed dual-clutch gearbox swapped for a six-speed sequential, and the clutch and differential uprated to handle the extreme loads.

Though the GT2 class doesn’t call for aerodynamics as extreme as GT3, an adjustable rear wing, aggressive front splitter, diffuser and side skirts are part of the new package. A roof-mounted intake, enlarged side intakes, front arch louvres, canards and a redesigned bonnet are also fitted for improved downforce and cooling. An uprated braking system sits behind a set of 18-inch forged aluminium centre lock wheels.

To ensure compliance with FIA safety requirements, the MC20 GT2 will be equipped with a new 120-litre fuel tank, fire extinguishing system, roll cage, six-point safety harness and more. 

Davide Grasso, Maserati CEO, said: 'We are driven by our passion, both on the road and on the track. We have a long history of world excellence in motorsport and we are extremely proud to race with the extraordinary MC20. Racing has always been Maserati's natural habitat and now, both in the Fanatec GT2 European Series Championship and in the Formula E Championship, this brand is making a new start from its roots to build the future'.

The Maserati MC20 GT2 will make its track debut in 2023 alongside the likes of Brabham, Audi and KTM.

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