In a thrilling fusion of Stuttgart engineering and cutting-edge simulation, Porsche Motorsport North America is launching the Porsche eSports Carrera Cup North America—its inaugural virtual racing championship kicking off in 2026. This six-race series perfectly mirrors the real-world Porsche Carrera Cup North America, bringing the adrenaline of one-make Porsche racing to sim enthusiasts across the US, Canada, and Mexico via the iRacing platform.
Debuting the brand-new Porsche 911 Cup (Type 992.2)—a 512-hp beast powered by a naturally aspirated 4.0-liter flat-six engine—the digital showdown emphasizes pure driver skill with fixed iRacing setups. Streamlined aerodynamics and simplified controls make it accessible yet fiercely competitive, just like its analog counterpart hitting North American tracks this year.
“This isn’t just pixels—it’s Porsche bridging physical and virtual worlds.”
Qualifying heats up fast: From February 18-25, top sim racers battle in Time Attack sessions at Road America and Sebring International Raceway. The 40 fastest aggregate times earn a grid spot. Aspiring pros need only an iRacing D License and can join via the official Discord for updates.
Each round delivers authentic racing drama: 60 minutes of practice, 15-minute qualifying, and a 40-minute sprint race, complete with live/post-race stewarding and driver briefings. Points mirror reality—25 for the winner, plus bonuses for pole (+2) and fastest lap (+1), with top-15 finishers scoring. Dynamic weather adds realism (rain disabled for fairness).
This isn’t just pixels—it’s Porsche bridging physical and virtual worlds. The real Carrera Cup has forged champions on these very circuits; now, eSports opens the door for garage-bound talents to shine, potentially scouting future stars for flesh-and-blood seats. As sim racing explodes, Porsche’s move cements its motorsport dominance in the metaverse.
Announced February 3 from Carson, California, the series promises broadcasts, community events, and that unmistakable flat-six howl—digitally rendered. Whether you’re a wheel wizard or trackside dreamer, 2026 marks the revving of a new era. Strap in: the checkered flag awaits in cyberspace.”
