P1racenews AI automatic summary:
As the deadline looms, the plans to have customer Porsches racing in WEC’s Hypercar class next year have suffered a blow – but not yet a final one
Last week, The Race uncovered a plan to keep Porsche 963s on the WEC grid despite Porsche’s factory exit decision. Since then, many developments have occurred, leaving questions about Porsche Motorsport’s stance and the possibility of 963s racing next year.
Discussions have continued internally at Porsche, with mixed opinions on the matter, heightened by Porsche’s announcement of a new factory Formula E team for 2026–27, causing further division within the company.
Despite the complexities, there is a strong belief that the Penske/Proton project could be a viable solution. Porsche Motorsport VP, Thomas Laudenbach, clarified that the plan with Roger Penske has been halted, but Proton Competition still has the opportunity to compete in the Hypercar class.
Although challenges remain, there is still hope for Porsche 963s on the WEC grid in the upcoming season. Roger Penske’s commitment and ongoing negotiations suggest that the project may not be entirely shelved, keeping fans intrigued about the potential return of the iconic Porsche cars in the series next year.
