2026-06-03
“Aurum 1006 km powered by Hankook” Program Expanded with “Mitjet Baltics” Races
During this year’s “Aurum 1006 km powered by Hankook” race weekend in Palanga, spectators will enjoy even more racing action, as the Mitjet Baltics 2026 series has been added to the event program. From July 15–18, fans will be able to watch practice sessions, qualifying, and two sprint races featuring identical French-built Mitjet 2L race cars.
The Palanga event will serve as the third round of the Mitjet Baltics championship. Prior to that, competitors will race in Riga and Kaunas, while the season finale will take place at the Pärnu circuit in Estonia. The opening round of this year’s championship in Riga attracted eight cars from five teams, while approximately 12 cars are expected to compete in Palanga.
According to the organizers of “Aurum 1006 km powered by Hankook,” the inclusion of the Mitjet Baltics series is good news for both competitors and spectators. Even in its 27th edition, the event continues to grow, expanding its sporting program and providing fans with even more on-track action between the main race sessions.
The Mitjet series has been running in France since 2012, and today similar championships are held in France, Italy, Denmark, and the Baltic States. The Mitjet 2L is a genuine race car powered by a 2.0-liter engine producing approximately 230 horsepower. Weighing around 820 kg, it can reach a top speed of about 220 km/h. All cars are prepared according to identical technical regulations, meaning that success depends primarily on driver performance rather than budget or technical advantages.
“The Mitjet 2L is a very well-balanced racing machine. It is suitable for young drivers from the age of 16, beginners, and so-called gentleman drivers alike. The car is fast, lightweight, enjoyable to drive, and its clear sporting and technical regulations make it easier to plan season expenses,” says Povilas Jankavičius, Mitjet Baltics Ambassador for the Baltic region.
Another strength of the series is its dynamic format. According to the preliminary schedule for the Palanga weekend, Thursday will feature two 20-minute practice sessions. Friday will include a 15-minute qualifying session followed by the first 15-minute race. On Saturday morning, before the grid procedures for the main 1006 km race, competitors will contest a second 15-minute race. Award ceremonies are planned immediately after each race finish.
Additional excitement will come from the starting order of the second race, where part of the field will start in reverse order based on the results of the first race. This format is expected to create more overtaking opportunities, closer competition, and a less predictable outcome.
The organizers also remind fans that tickets are already available, allowing spectators to secure their place for the hottest racing weekend of July.