Fans found a surprising link between Leonida's new map, World War II, and franchises like Forza Horizon, among other finds
The Grand Theft Auto franchise may feature, for the first time in its history, an asphalt racetrack available for use in the game. Growing evidence points to the long-awaited GTA 6, set in the fictional state of Leonida, will feature a car complex inspired by the classic Sebring International Raceway. Named “Gellhorn International”, the place has been the subject of speculation since the leaks of the game’s code in 2022 and the theory gained strength with details of the second official trailer released by Rockstar Games.
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Internet investigators and collaborative mapping enthusiasts have identified striking geographical similarities between the actual runway, located in Florida, and the virtual layout. The main track of the “Gellhorn” has curves practically identical to those of Sebring, with emphasis on the design of the famous “Sunset Bend”.
In addition to the main circuit, the complex appears to house a paddock and a drag strip to the north, whose contours refer to Gainesville Raceway. The most recent visual confirmation came in the second official trailer for the title, in which the protagonist Lucia appears wearing a t-shirt printed with the “Gellhorn International” brand and a Dominator ASP — the equivalent in the game’s universe of a Ford Mustang Cobra.
The baptism of the racetrack suggests a refined historical “easter egg” from the developer. Martha Gellhorn was a celebrated World War II correspondent, married to writer Ernest Hemingway and the only woman journalist present on D-Day.
The introduction of a full, technical circuit represents a paradigm shift for the series, which has historically relied on street racing or improvisation on gravel. The novelty has the potential to attract an audience accustomed to simulators and open-world driving franchises, approaching the dynamics seen in the Forza Horizon series.
In the multiplayer environment, the Gellhorn complex would function as a centralized hub for track days, drag racing events and much more structured official competitions. Despite the solidity of the evidence found by fans, Rockstar maintains its traditional policy of silence. The confirmation of the track, as well as the details of its functions, should only occur with the release of the game, scheduled for seven months from now.
