Duraes joins Boots at GRP Tyres

Following the major announcement of top 1:8 Offroad racer Elliott Boots as their first factory supported driver for 2026, GRP Tyres continues to finalise its team line-up with the announcement of new Hong Nor signing Carlos Duraes.  The Portuguese driver will now officially represent the Italian tyre manufacturer using their Ai-TECH 1:8 Buggy Tyre Ranged which it introduced last May.  Adding to the range with the launch of their 5th pattern, the Micro, at the end of last year, announcing their latest driver signing GRP founder Maurizio Gandini posted, ‘I, Maurizio, together with Susi and Sara, owners of GRP, are proud to announce Carlos Duraes as an official GRP Factory Team driver for 2026. Fast. Experienced. Consistent. Carlos has been a proven reference on Portuguese tracks for years, recognized for his racing mindset, technical precision, and ability to push development where it really matters: on the track.  This is not just another signing.
It’s a clear step forward in our Buggy program.  And it’s only the beginning.’  Duraes added, ‘Extremely happy to join GRP!  I’ve been racing with their tires from last year and felt their quality was top notch with great performance and comfort driving around different track conditions. Thank you.’

Source: GRP [grpgandini.it]