Laurens Vanthoor 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 choice to withdraw its manufacturing unit crew from the Hypercar class after simply three seasons has created uncertainty relating to the way forward for its LMDh driver line-up.
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 12 months.
A emptiness has already opened up at Porsche Penske Motorsport crew in IMSA following reigning champion Mathieu Jaminet’s transfer to Genesis’ new WEC programme, nevertheless it stays unclear how Porsche will accommodate the remainder of its drivers throughout IMSA and different championships.
In concept, the Volkswagen Group model may keep a presence within the WEC’s high class subsequent 12 months if it may possibly appeal to sufficient curiosity from clients, however Proton Competitors has already indicated that it doesn’t have the funding to function two 963s – the minimal required per producer for an entry in Hypercar.
Vanthoor, who has already made a number of IMSA appearances as an extra driver at PPM, mentioned a transfer to the GTP class can be enticing to him – nevertheless it wouldn’t come with out sacrifices.
“I at all times like to be in IMSA. It is a championship I get pleasure from being at loads,” the Belgian instructed Motorsport.com. “However I can even miss not being in Le Mans, though there’s nonetheless an opportunity.
“Le Mans is a race I have not received but, so it is one thing I want to be there. However ultimately, I might even be very pleased in IMSA. I believe I get pleasure from being there loads.”
Requested how he views his prospects of securing a spot in Porsche’s IMSA squad subsequent 12 months, 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 should not so many choices moreover IMSA. However it’s one thing Porsche will talk on the total championships.”
Laurens Vanthoor, Porsche
Picture by: Porsche Motorsport
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.
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 12 months with team-mates Kevin Estre 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 Nick Tandy and Felipe Nasr 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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