Pirelli will become the new official tire supplier of the Porsche Carrera Cup North America from the 2026 season.
The multi-year agreement marks the first time in the championship’s six-year history that the Italian manufacturer’s branded cup tires will be used on the circuit.
The official debut of the partnership will take place during the class’ joint test session at Sebring International Raceway in February. On that occasion, the new Porsche 911 Cup generation 992.2 will make its first public appearance, equipped with Pirelli-tyres.
P Zero DHG becomes the official tire of the class
The Porsche Carrera Cup North America will use the P Zero DHGa model that has equipped all Pirelli-supported GT championships since 2025. The compound has been developed with a focus on consistent performance, greater thermal stability and a wider performance window during racing.
In case of rain, the class will feature the Cinturato WHB, the standard tire for wet conditions in GT competitions supplied by the brand since 2025.
Another important point is the presence of the FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) quality mark on the new P Zero. The certification guarantees that the natural rubber used comes from growing areas managed according to strict environmental standards, ensuring traceability and separation of materials throughout the production chain.
Connection between circuit and street
The announcement comes shortly after Pirelli confirmed the development of specific versions of the P Zero R and the P Zero Trofeo RS for the road-going version of the Porsche 911 GT3, reinforcing its strategy to transfer technology from motorsport to production models.
According to Volker Holzmeyer, president and CEO of Porsche Motorsport North America, the partnership heralds a new phase for the championship. Claudio Zanardo, president and CEO of Pirelli North America, emphasized that the agreement expands the brand’s presence in high-end championships in North America.
New generation of the 911 Cup will debut in 2026
The 2026 season also marks the debut of the Porsche 911 Cup generation 992.2, an evolution of the model used in the German manufacturer’s brand cups. The new car brings improvements in handling, balance and aerodynamic efficiency.
The 992.2 will only compete in four global championships in 2026: Porsche Carrera Cup North America, Porsche Carrera Cup Germany, Porsche Carrera Cup Asia and Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup.
The official season opener will take place between March 18 and 20, again in Sebring, as part of the traditional Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring program, counting towards the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship.
With the arrival of Pirelli and the new 911 Cup, the Porsche Carrera Cup North America begins a new technical and strategic phase, combining performance, innovation and sustainability in one of the most competitive branded cups on the continent.
Source and images: Porsche. This content was created using AI and reviewed by the editors.
