2023 Formula 2 champion Théo Pourchaire will join Peugeot’s full-time FIA WEC Hypercar factory roster in 2026, the French brand has confirmed today.
The Frenchman will make his first start in a 9X8 ahead of the 2026 opener, racing in this year’s season finale at the Bahrain International Circuit in place of Stoffel Vandoorne, whose contract with Peugeot ends after the upcoming WEC race in Fuji.
This promotion comes after Pourchaire was invited to take part in the Bahrain Rookie Test in November 2024, when he completed 17 laps at the wheel of a 9X8 and convinced the team to appoint him as development driver.
Since stepping up to his development role, he has taken part in several private test sessions at the wheel of the Hypercar (including a run earlier this week at CoTA), as well as numerous simulator sessions in Satory. He’s also been competing in the FIA WEC with Algarve Pro Racing in LMP2, adding to his sportscar racing CV.
“Théo continues his learning process with the 9X8, and this race represents a logical step in his integration into the Hypercar programme,” said Olivier Jansonnie, Peugeot Sport’s technical director.
“After a strong season in ELMS and steady progress, Théo has shown that he has the qualities required to perform at the highest level of endurance racing. He quickly adapted to the discipline, and his commitment since the start of the project has been remarkable.
“ Making his WEC debut in Bahrain naturally fits with his journey alongside the team. We have full confidence in his ability to meet the demands of the world championship. This opportunity aligns with our desire to prepare for the future by gradually integrating young, high-potential talents.”
Pourchaire added: “I am super happy — thank you to Team Peugeot TotalEnergies for making my dream of becoming a professional racing driver come true, and thank you to everyone who has supported me.
“ I am proud to represent Peugeot, a brand with a rich motorsport history that has won the 24 Hours of Le Mans. I can’t wait to take the start of this legendary race in the top category behind the wheel of the 9X8. I am delighted to make my race debut in Bahrain alongside Loïc and Malthe, on a track I really enjoy and where I’ve already had great success in Formula 2 and karting.”
Meanwhile, news of Vandoorne’s departure comes after he completed 13 FIA WEC races in the 9X8, achieving two Hyperpole qualifications, the most recent one at Spa-Francorchamps.
“On behalf of Team Peugeot TotalEnergies, I would like to thank Stoffel for his professionalism, commitment, and all the experience he has shared with us over these two years. The whole team wishes him the very best for the future of his career,” said Jansonnie.
Prior to today’s news, Peugeot recently confirmed that New Zealander Nick Cassidy is also joining the team in 2026 as a full-time WEC driver.
Image courtesy of Peugeot
