New Porsche 911 Cup car breaks cover

Porsche has revealed its next-generation 911 Cup car for its global one-make series, including the Mobil 1 Supercup, which will debut in 2026.

Based on the 992.2 evolution of the road-going 911, the new model represents a comprehensive update and replaces the outgoing 992-generation 911 GT3 Cup, which was first presented 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 louver fender vents, turning vanes to improve airflow, and a redesigned underbody work together to improve the car's ability 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 fiber and bio-based resin.

The new machine boasts a power increase to 520 PS (382 kW) from its naturally aspirated 4.0-liter 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 — a particular advantage 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 controls, while a simplified central 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. Tire 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 tire 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.

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“Like its successful predecessors, the new 911 Cup pushes boundaries," says Thomas Laudenbach, the VP of Porsche Motorsport. "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.”

Matthias Scholz, Porsche's director of GT racing cars, adds: "This car is stronger, faster, and more practical. We’ve improved performance without sacrificing durability and implemented sustainable materials and smarter electronics for broader application in global motorsport.”

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.

This adds to Porsche's storied Cup program, which dates back to the 1990s. Since launching the current generation 911 Cup car in 2020, Porsche Motorsport has built over 1,100 units and a total of 5,281 Porsche 911s have been produced to date for single-make competition.