Manthey Racing to Debut in IMSA’s Michelin Endurance Cup
Manthey Racing, a prominent figure in Porsche’s racing lineage, will make its inaugural entry into the IMSA Michelin Endurance Cup in the 2026 season, fielding two Porsche 911 GT3 Rs. This campaign marks a significant expansion of Manthey’s operations, as they transition from sporadic appearances to full-season competition.
The team’s well-known ‘Grello’ Porsche (#911) will highlight their efforts in the GTD PRO category, while the #912 will continue its partnership with 1st Phorm in the GTD class. Ryan Hardwick, who has already joined Manthey, is the first driver confirmed for this new initiative. Previously, Hardwick finished as runner-up in the GT class of the Asian Le Mans Series and had success in the FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC).
“I am thrilled to be returning to IMSA with Manthey in 2026,” said Hardwick. “Having started my racing career in IMSA, I am excited to now be part of Manthey’s driver lineup for their first North American season.”
Currently, Manthey 1st Phorm leads the WEC’s LMGT3 standings, backed by victories at Imola and the 24 Hours of Le Mans. The German squad heads into the WEC finale at Bahrain next month, aiming for a fitting conclusion to an already successful season, which also included triumphs in the Asian Le Mans Series and DTM.
Despite being newcomers to the IMSA scene, Manthey has participated in the prestigious 24 Hours of Daytona, showcasing a 991-spec 911 GT3 R in 2018. The 24 Hours of Daytona, scheduled for January 21-25, 2025, will serve as the debut for their new program, with the team also attending the upcoming IMSA-sanctioned test in November at the speedway.
Manthey joins a competitive field that includes AO Racing (GTD PRO) and Porsche Penske Motorsport (GTP) under the Porsche banner for the 2026 season. Full entry details are anticipated soon, including additional driver confirmations and vehicle liveries.
Nicolas Raeder, Managing Director of Manthey Racing, expressed pride in the upcoming entry: “Entering the American market has long been a dream for us as it plays a critical role for our road car products. Competing in endurance races allows us to engage with dealers and enthusiasts.”
Manthey’s Director of Racing, Patrick Arkenau, added that this venture marks their first time racing under their own name, expressing the team’s keen ambition to secure victories across both GTD PRO and GTD classes. “IMSA presents a different kind of racing, and we look forward to the challenge,” he said.
The team’s commitment to this new chapter in their racing history underscores their strategic growth and dedication to expanding Porsche’s legacy in endurance racing.
