Gerard Lopez Enters Trophy Truck Racing with Brenthel Industries

From Formula 1 to the Desert: A New Chapter Begins

In a major crossover moment for global motorsports, international entrepreneur, former Formula 1 team owner, and accomplished driver Gerard Lopez has officially entered the world of off-road racing with Brenthel Industries.

Competing under the Iconic Racing banner, Lopez will take on select events in the premier Unlimited Trophy Truck class, piloting a Brenthel Gen 3.5 Trophy Truck featuring an SUV body configuration.

Backed by a strong lineup of partners—including Vanguart, Lydian Group, and DYC Hats—this program marks a significant step into one of motorsport’s most demanding disciplines.

A Shift from Precision to Chaos

After more than 30 years in circuit racing, Lopez is no stranger to high-performance environments. From Formula 1 leadership to endurance racing success across Europe and the United States, his resume is extensive.

But Trophy Truck racing presents an entirely new challenge.

“I am very excited to come into a new sport after 30 years of on-road racing,” said Lopez.
“I went to test a Trophy Truck and had an absolute blast.”

What sets desert racing apart is its unpredictability. Unlike traditional circuit racing, where precision and repetition dominate, off-road racing introduces constantly changing terrain, extreme conditions, and a level of physical demand unlike anything on pavement.

“It is absolute sensorial overload… It’s really going from 2D racing to 3D.”

Built for the Desert: The Brenthel Gen 3.5 Platform

At the center of Lopez’s program is the Brenthel Gen 3.5 Trophy Truck—a platform engineered to handle the harshest environments in motorsports.

Known for its:

• Advanced suspension systems
• Exceptional durability
• High-speed desert capability
• Proven race-winning performance

The Gen 3.5 represents years of refinement and innovation from Brenthel Industries, delivering a truck capable of performing at the highest level in the Unlimited class.

In Trophy Truck racing, success isn’t just about speed—it’s about survival, adaptability, and consistency over some of the most brutal terrain in the world.

A Legacy of Motorsport Excellence

Lopez brings with him a deep and diverse motorsports background:

Formula 1 Leadership

As owner of Team Lotus and later the Alpine F1 Team, Lopez led operations that achieved:

• 2 Grand Prix victories
• 23 podium finishes

Endurance & GT Racing Success

Through Iconic Racing, Lopez has secured over 30 race wins across historic and modern platforms, including championship success with Mercedes-Benz GT3 programs.

IMSA HSR Achievements (United States)

• 7 Daytona 24-hour wins
• 1 Sebring 12-hour victory
• 1 Watkins Glen 6-hour victory
• Multiple podium finishes across premier circuits

His experience spans an iconic lineup of race cars, including the Porsche 962, Ford GT40 MkII, Mercedes SLS AMG GT3, Cadillac DPI, and many more—making his transition into off-road racing one of the most compelling in recent years.

Respect for the Discipline

Despite his accomplishments, Lopez enters Trophy Truck racing with humility and respect for the sport.

“Right now, I am an absolute novice and have massive respect for what these drivers are capable of… the level of technology, especially in suspension, and the commitment required is incredible.”

This mindset reflects the reality of off-road racing—where even the most experienced drivers must adapt, learn, and earn their place.

Looking Ahead: 2026 and Beyond

The 2026 season will serve as a foundation year for Lopez as he gains experience in desert racing.

However, the long-term vision is already taking shape.

If the program proves successful, plans are in consideration to expand Iconic Racing into a two-truck operation by 2027, signaling a deeper commitment to Trophy Truck competition.

The Brenthel Standard

At Brenthel Industries, programs like this represent more than competition—they reflect the continued growth and evolution of the sport.

From first-time drivers to seasoned professionals crossing over from other disciplines, Brenthel provides the platform, technology, and support to compete at the highest level.

Gerard Lopez’s entry into Trophy Truck racing is another example of how the sport continues to attract world-class talent—and how Brenthel remains at the center of that movement.

Follow the Journey

As Lopez takes on the desert in 2026, all eyes will be on his transition from circuit racing to off-road competition.

👉 Stay tuned for updates, race coverage, and behind-the-scenes content as this new chapter unfolds.