The only 24-hour solar race in the world

On September 19 and 20, 2026, Circuit Zolder will once again host the iLumen European Solar Challenge (iESC), the largest solar race in Europe and the second largest worldwide. This endurance event brings together university teams from across the globe to push the limits of solar technology.

Our history Our team

iESC 2026

Are you ready to take part in the world’s only 24-hour solar race?

  • Team registration
    Compete against teams from around the world.
  • Volunteer registration
    Contribute to the event and help shape the future
of solar racing.
Register my team Become a volunteer

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Save the date

19 & 20 September 2026

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Why participate
in the iESC?

The iLumen European Solar Challenge is designed to push the boundaries of solar racing and innovation.

  • Unique endurance race: the only 24-hour competition for solar cars worldwide.
  • Preparation for the World Solar Challenge: teams can test and optimize their vehicles one year ahead of the Australian race.
  • Open to all: university teams, factory teams, and independent innovators are all welcome.
  • A full racing experience: teams work around the clock on strategy, problem-solving, and performance optimization.
  • Strong international community: teams not only compete but also exchange knowledge, support each other, and share best practices.
  • More than a race: Greenville at Circuit Zolder offers insights into the latest advancements in renewable energy, battery storage, smart charging …

The iESC is free and open to visitors from Friday afternoon onwards. Schools, businesses, and technology enthusiasts are invited to explore cutting-edge solar and electric mobility innovations.

Our partners

Our team

Frans-Joseph Joosten

Chairman

A proving ground for tomorrow’s technology.

Michiel Janssen

Event Organiser

Team spirit is the real fuel of the IESC. Without it, no car moves, no dream drives forward.

Pete Schloithe

Safety Manager & Head of volunteers

My role as Safety Officer and Volunteer Manager is to help all teams and officials stay safe and have fun.

Jo Vanzwijgenhoven

Logistics Manager

Behind every smooth event is a logistics manager turning chaos into coordination.

Robin Paenen

Regulations Manager

Where there's a will, there's a way!

Kristof Gaukema

Senior Regulations Manager

Speed drives us forward, sustainability keeps us on track

Ludo Bex

Reception & Administration Coordinator

Welcome to the front desk, proudly making it an entrance to remember!

Ismaël Ben-Al-Lal

Vice Chairman

Kyron Pijpers

Volunteer Manager

Our blogs

The latest news about our solar racers.

Why Circuit Zolder is the ultimate 24 hour survival test for solar cars

While most solar challenges take place on long straight highways, the iLumen European Solar Challenge iESC chooses a more demanding path. At Circuit Zolder solar cars are not just driving, they are being pushed to the absolute limits of engineering and endurance. With only 4 team spots left for the 2026 edition, we dive into […]
All blogs