has expressed curiosity in becoming a member of IMSA after Porsche’s exit from the World Endurance Championship, however admits he’s reluctant to overlook one other shot on the Le Mans 24 Hours.
Porsche’s shock resolution to after simply three seasons has created uncertainty relating to the way forward for its LMDh driver line-up.
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Whereas the German producer will proceed to function the 963 LMDh in IMSA’s GTP division, it can have simply 4 full-time seats to supply in 2026 – down from eight this yr.
A emptiness has already opened up at workforce in IMSA following reigning champion ’s transfer to Genesis’ new WEC programme, however it stays unclear how Porsche will accommodate the remainder of its drivers throughout IMSA and different championships.
In concept, the Volkswagen Group model might preserve a presence within the WEC’s high class subsequent yr if it could entice sufficient curiosity from prospects, however has already indicated that it doesn’t have the funding to function two 963s – the minimal required per producer for an entry in Hypercar.
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Vanthoor, who has already made a number of IMSA appearances as a further driver at PPM, mentioned a transfer to the GTP class can be enticing to him – however it wouldn’t come with out sacrifices.
“I all the time like to be in IMSA. It is a championship I get pleasure from being at quite a bit,” the Belgian instructed Motorsport.com. “However I may even miss not being in Le Mans, though there’s nonetheless an opportunity.
“Le Mans is a race I have never received but, so it is one thing I wish to be there. However ultimately, I’d even be very completely happy in IMSA. I believe I get pleasure from being there quite a bit.”
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Requested how he views his prospects of securing a spot in Porsche’s IMSA squad subsequent yr, Vanthoor mentioned: “It is one thing Porsche has to speak. However I do know I’ve a contract with Porsche to drive the 963, and there aren’t so many choices in addition to IMSA. However it’s one thing Porsche will talk on the whole championships.”
Laurens Vanthoor, Porsche
Laurens Vanthoor, Porsche
Vanthoor was one of many a number of drivers promoted from Porsche’s GT roster when it returned to the highest echelon of endurance racing in 2023 with twin programmes within the WEC and IMSA.
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Driving the 963 LMDh, he delivered Porsche its first Hypercar win on the inaugural Qatar 1812km in 2024, and likewise received the drivers’ title the identical yr with team-mates and Andre Lotterer.
The Belgian began his 2025 marketing campaign with outright victories within the Daytona 24 Hours and the Sebring 12 Hours after becoming a member of IMSA regulars and within the #7 Porsche 963.
Previous to stepping as much as prototypes, Vanthoor loved a profitable tenure in GTs with Porsche and sister model Audi, successful a number of main enduros together with the Spa 24 Hours, the Nurburgring 24 Hours and the Bathurst 12 Hour.
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