Patrick Schober spoke about his recent McLaren Artura Trophy EVO test at Circuito de Navarra and how this will shape his plans for the 2026 season.
Austrian young talent Patrick Schober is keeping his options open for the upcoming racing season.
After racing in the NASCAR Euro Series for four years, the 21-year old could find himself competing in sports cars for 2026 following a successful McLaren Artura Trophy EVO test at Circuito de Navarra.
The test was held on 3-5 February 2026 in rainy conditions. Nine drivers were invited to the test, including Schober – who was joined by drivers such as Enzo Peugeot, Charlie Martin and Robin Dönni.
Despite the poor weather, Schober was determined to give the Artura Trophy EVO a proper go in Navarra.
“A few days ago, at the invitation of McLaren, I had the opportunity to test the McLaren EVO Trophy in Navarra,” said Schober about his testing experience on Facebook.
“It was a car in which I immediately felt comfortable. The car and I were instantly best friends, and after two laps, despite the rainy conditions, I had it so well under control that I could push the car to its limits right from the start.”
“The car drives so precisely, does exactly what I want, and is perfectly controllable even in areas where you have to turn the steering wheel in the opposite direction when cornering.”
“Of course, behind a fantastic car is a fantastic team, and the mechanics and engineers at McLaren provided me with a top-notch car.”
“The entire support from the team, including the McLaren factory drivers, was not only professional, but also very courteous and friendly.”
“I think I’m not the only one who is very satisfied with this test. I’m convinced that I have not disappointed anyone. A very successful test day for all parties at this McLaren test. Thank you!”
Schober’s possible switch to sports cars was boosted by an event that took place just a few weeks prior.
On 20 January 2026, Patrick’s father Peter made a post on social media announcing Procar Motorsport’s decision to sell the EuroNASCAR stock car that Patrick had been using for both private testing and two-seater taxi rides at his local track Slovakiaring.
“We’ve sold the NASCAR [car].” Peter said. “We also sold the Porsche [911], but not the new one of course. That one’s still here, but we’re moving with the new one.”
Schober confirmed the news when we reached out to the Austrian. He also spoke about his plans for 2026, saying that he’s still not closing out the opportunity to compete in EuroNASCAR just yet.
Should Schober decide to return to EuroNASCAR, he will be set for his fifth consecutive season in Europe’s top stock car racing championship.
Schober finished seventh in EuroNASCAR OPEN in 2025, having suffered from two retirements and one 19th place finish in the second half of the season.
“We sold our EuroNASCAR car a few weeks ago and the collaboration with McLaren Motorsport has been a real success,” said Schober on the latest developments from his side.
“For now, all I can say is that the McLaren Trophy has priority this year. However, I wouldn’t completely close the EuroNASCAR door.”
“I’m still in contact with a few EuroNASCAR teams, but at the moment I can’t say for sure whether I’ll be on the grid. It all depends on sponsors and the overall circumstances.”
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