Porsche has revealed its next-generation 911 Cup car, which will debut across its global one-make series, including the Mobil 1 Supercup, from the 2026 season onwards.
Based on the 992.2 evolution of the road-going 911, the new model represents a comprehensive update focused on boosting performance, reducing running costs, and improving usability for teams and drivers.
This new Cup racer, teased last month, is set to replace the outgoing 992-generation 911 GT3 Cup, which debuted in 2020.
Notably, the car will now carry the simplified name 911 Cup, as Porsche moves to streamline nomenclature across its customer racing range. The ‘GT’ suffix will now be reserved exclusively for models competing in open-brand GT racing.
The new 911 Cup features a refreshed front-end design mirroring the latest 992.2 911 GT3, along with revised aerodynamics to enhance downforce and cooling. New integrated louvre fender vents, turning vanes to improve airflow, and a redesigned underbody work together to sharpen the car’s characteristics through corners and at high speeds.
A three-piece front splitter allows easier and cheaper repairs after minor contact, while the deletion of daytime running lights helps prevent radiator damage in frontal impacts. At the rear, the swan-neck wing has been modified for easier adjustment, and most body panels — including the engine cover and doors — are now made from recycled carbon fibre and bio-based resin.
The new machine boasts a power increase to 520 PS (382 kW) from its naturally aspirated 4.0-litre flat-six engine — a 10 PS gain — while retaining its 100-hour engine life.
The updated engine, based closely on the 911 GT3 unit, now includes improved throttle valves and camshafts, with no need for a central throttle body. This change also allows for an air restrictor to be fitted, making the car eligible for a broader range of GT racing categories.
The powertrain is coupled to a six-speed sequential dogbox, now paired with a more robust sintered-metal clutch. Other new features include an auto-restart function following a stall and a race-start strobe light integrated into the brake system for enhanced safety at the start.
Larger 380 mm front discs (featuring an increased cross-section from 32 to 35 mm) with improved cooling and revised pad geometry contribute to more consistent braking and extended component life. A Bosch M5 ABS system, which will become standard across all 911 Cup cars, supports new acceleration sensors and can detect fluid leaks.
Porsche has also improved the car’s low-speed agility with revised steering stops, offering a tighter turning circle — an advantage particularly on narrow street courses – and for improved oversteer control.
Inside, a redesigned multi-function steering wheel now houses ABS and traction control settings on illuminated rotary dials, while a simplified central control panel allows in-car access to setup options that previously required a laptop. Additional padding in the door structure enhances driver protection.
A host of electronic updates includes a new GPS-based timing and tracking system, replacing the older infrared unit. Tyre pressure and air temperature are now displayed via TPMS on the main dashboard. Other GT3 R-inspired features include automated engine cut-off during pit stops and a new fire extinguisher battery monitor.
Porsche has again collaborated with Michelin on a bespoke tyre for the new model, tested extensively at Monza, the Lausitzring and Weissach by Marco Seefriend and three former Porsche Juniors: Bastian Buus, Laurin Heinrich and Klaus Bachler..
The new 911 Cup will be priced at €269,000 (excluding VAT) and, for the first time, will be produced alongside Porsche’s road cars at its main Zuffenhausen plant.
Since launching the current generation 911 Cup car in 2020, Porsche Motorsport has built over 1,100 units. A total of 5,281 Porsche 911s have been produced to date for single-make competition.
“This car is stronger, faster, and more practical,” says Matthias Scholz, Porsche’s director GT racing cars. “We’ve improved performance without sacrificing durability and implemented sustainable materials and smarter electronics for broader application in global motorsport.”
Thomas Laudenbach, the VP of Porsche Motorsport, adds: “Like its successful predecessors, the new 911 Cup pushes boundaries. It combines series components from our GT sports cars with pure racing technology to create a coherent and performance-based overall concept.
“Driving the 911 Cup has always been regarded as a challenge. And we want to keep it that way because it also serves as the training platform for our Porsche Juniors. The success of this concept is evident in its countless race and championship victories.”
Images courtesy of Porsche
