The closing night of the 2025 FIA WEC season this Sunday (9) was marked by emotion and recognition. Amidst the trophies of the world champions, one name shone that represents the future of Brazilian endurance: Eduardo Barrichello was officially elected as the Rookie of the Year of the World Endurance Championship.
At 24 years old, Dudu completed his first season in the WEC competing in the LMGT3 category for the Racing Spirit of Leman team, where he shared the cockpit with Frenchman Valentin Hasse Clot throughout the year, as well as Derek de Boer and Anthony McIntosh in selected stages. At the wheel of the Aston Martin Vantage AMR LMGT3, the young Brazilian driver drew attention for his consistent performance, mature attitude, and fighting spirit.
Right from his debut in the legendary 24 Hours of Le Mans, Dudu completed the test with solidity, demonstrating the respect necessary to win the heart of the category. But it was at home, in the Rolex 6 Hours of São Paulo, that he starred in one of the most unforgettable moments of the season: pole position in LMGT3, a brilliant race, and an exciting overtaking move on the last lap, securing a place on the podium in front of the Brazilian crowd — a feat that will be etched in the history of the event.
Barrichello would still conquer another pole position in the 6 Hours of Fuji stage, in Japan, reaffirming that his performance was not a coincidence, but talent and hard work. Although his team faced challenges throughout the year — with lineup changes and four stages without scoring — Dudu finished the championship in 15th place, adding up 32 points, half of them conquered in Interlagos.
Son of Rubens Barrichello, Dudu carries a surname that inspires generations, but has been building his own legacy with determination, passion, and talent. His election as Rookie of the Year reinforces that the future of endurance has already begun — and he wears green and yellow.
“It was a great year, the first time driving a GT3. I learned a lot, with a great team. We had good results, like in Brazil with pole and podium, and my family with me. I tried to adapt quickly, matured a lot, and want to continue producing more in the next season. Thank you to everyone who is with me on this journey and was with me in the toughest moments. It has always been my dream to compete in a category like WEC, but being here is beyond my imagination,” said the driver.
As he defines the next steps of his endurance career, Dudu Barrichello already has a new challenge in sight. The 2026 FIA WEC season will start in Qatar on March 28 and will pass through Interlagos again, with the Rolex 6 Hours of São Paulo confirmed for the weekend of July 10-12, in front of the passionate Brazilian crowd that saw him shine in 2025.
Automobile Salon – The Rolex 6 Hours of São Paulo will have its own stand at the São Paulo International Automobile Salon 2025, which takes place from November 22 to 30 at Anhembi. The event’s official space will bring an immersive experience of the FIA WEC, with racing simulators, special activations, and a podcast studio with guests from the automotive world and the automotive market. The presence at the Salon reinforces the connection of the Rolex 6 Hours of São Paulo with the public and celebrates the success of the stage held in Interlagos, consolidating the event as one of the great icons of world motorsport.
