P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Despite the last-ditch bid by privateer Proton, The Race understands there will be no Porsches in WEC’s Hypercar class in 2026
The Porsche 963 saga for the 2026 World Endurance Championship is coming to a close. The full list of entrants for next year’s grid will be revealed by the ACO on Monday. Unfortunately, there will be no Porsche 963s on the Hypercar grid as Proton Competition is not expected to participate. This absence extends to the Le Mans 24 Hours event, where no Porsche 963s will be seen.
Porsche Penske Motorsport had already shut down its Hypercar programme. Despite efforts, Proton couldn’t secure the backing for a second car, leading to their absence. The absence of Porsche 963s also impacts Roger Penske’s hopes of competing with a two-car entry at Le Mans.
With Porsche’s strategic decisions, it seems unlikely that the 963 will race at Le Mans in June. The 2026 WEC grid is expected to have 35 full-season entries, with 18 in LMGT3 and 17 in Hypercar, featuring 14 manufacturers including new arrival Genesis. LMGT3 grid will remain similar with some teams dropping off.
