ACI CIGT3 2026 - 5 Questions to... Edoardo Ruggiero
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Fresh off his victory in the LMGT3 class of the Italian HYGT Championship on Le Mans Ultimate, his 2026 season has also begun under the banner of continuity on Assetto Corsa Competizione. Between national ambitions, technical adaptation, and competitive maturity, we met with him to understand how he is experiencing this moment in his career.
1. After the Italian LMGT3 title on LMU, the GT3 championship on ACC has also started in the best possible way. How are you living this moment?
Winning the Italian LMU title was an important step. I have always set myself the goal of winning an ACI championship, and it has finally arrived. The Italian GT3 Championship on ACC has also recently begun, and the aim is to replicate that performance. I’m happy that all the training and effort put in over these years are paying off.
2. Do you feel like the driver to beat? And who do you see as your main rival in the title fight?
At a national level, I consider myself one of the benchmark drivers, even though the competition is always very high. In the current championship, I feel there are two names in particular: Marco Lomi, consistent and attentive, and Emanuele Cardinale, aggressive and unpredictable. It will be an interesting battle right to the end.
3. Switching between different simulators like ACC and LMU requires adaptation. What differences do you feel the most, and what role does the team play in your journey?
ACC and LMU are two different pieces of software, both in terms of driving style and strategy management. The transition doesn’t create any particular difficulties for me: a couple of sessions are enough to regain the feeling. Preparation varies depending on race length and the strategies involved, but the mental approach remains the same. The team is fundamental: they support me in performance analysis and data interpretation, helping me grow race after race.
4. How important is the work behind the scenes – data analysis, setup, strategy – in turning talent into results?
The management side is decisive. The driver must feel completely at one with the car and already have a clear race strategy in mind. Data analysis with the team allows for a broader perspective and helps maximise the final result. Today, attention to detail makes the difference.
5. With GT3 cars you are showing great consistency and competitiveness. Looking ahead, do you see yourself staying in this category, or would you like to challenge yourself with Prototypes or Formula cars?
I have never limited myself to driving just one category, but I have to say that I really enjoy GT3 cars: they are high-performance machines with a uniquely well-balanced nature. I have also tried other categories, achieving very good results, so I’m not ruling anything out. Never say never.
In recent months, awareness has grown as well: starting a championship with the concrete goal of winning it changes your approach. In the past, despite strong pace, a few mistakes proved costly. Experience is built over time, but today he feels ready to take on any competition.