Manthey Racing has confirmed a formidable driver line-up for the 2026 edition of the Nürburgring 24 Hours, as it aims to convert recent near-misses into outright victory.
With two consecutive runner-up finishes in the event, the team now returns with a clear objective. As a result, expectations remain high heading into the iconic endurance race, which will take place on May 16–17 at the demanding Nordschleife circuit.
A proven trio returns for the 2026 edition of the Nürburgring 24 Hours with Manthey Racing
Manthey has once again placed its trust in a familiar and successful driver combination. Kevin Estre, Thomas Preining, and Ayhancan Güven will reunite in the team’s iconic ‘Grello’ Porsche 911 GT3 R.
This continuity provides a strong foundation, particularly given the trio’s consistent performances in recent editions of the race. Moreover, Estre will look to add another victory to his 2021 triumph with the team.
Clear targets for a milestone year
Manthey enters the event with added motivation, as the team celebrates a significant anniversary. Consequently, the ambition extends beyond simply reaching the podium.
Nicolas Raeder, Managing Director of Manthey Racing, outlined the team’s objectives and the significance of the occasion. He said, “As we finished in second place two years in a row, our goal for this year at the Nürburgring is of course clear: in our 30th anniversary year, we want to secure our eighth overall victory,” said Manthey managing director Nicolas Raeder.
Beyond raw pace, Manthey places significant value on experience and cohesion. The long-standing relationship between the drivers and the team plays a crucial role in its strategy.
Patrick Arkenau, Director of Racing, emphasised the importance of this stability and shared understanding. He explained, “We all share the same great passion for our home race in the Green Hell. With Kevin, Ayhancan and Thomas, we are relying on proven drivers. We have been working together for a long time and I believe that this continuity always brings an advantage.”
Therefore, familiarity and teamwork could prove decisive in a race where precision and consistency are essential.
The challenge of the Nordschleife
The Nürburgring 24 Hours remains one of the most challenging races in motorsport. Its combination of unpredictable weather, heavy traffic, and the technical demands of the Nordschleife creates a unique test for both drivers and teams.
Preining, who recently secured victory at the Red Bull Ring in DTM competition, recognises the significance of the event within the racing calendar. He described both the intensity and the appeal of the race, saying, “The race comes with enormous pressure, but it’s also one of the most beautiful events of the year, not least because of the incredible fan support.”
Given the scale of the challenge, Manthey has placed strong emphasis on preparation. Every detail, from strategy to execution, will play a critical role in determining the outcome. Preining underlined the team’s readiness and belief in its potential. He added, “We definitely have all the ingredients to be successful and are taking our preparation very seriously.”
This approach reflects a broader commitment to maximising performance across all aspects of the race weekend.
Strength in depth
In addition to its primary line-up, Manthey has also named Matt Campbell as reserve driver. Campbell has already competed with the team in earlier rounds of the Nürburgring Langstrecken-Serie (NLS), ensuring he remains fully integrated into the programme. As a result, the team benefits from both experience and flexibility, strengthening its overall campaign.
Therefore, after two years of near misses, Manthey Racing returns to the Nürburgring with a clear and focused objective. By combining a proven driver line-up, extensive experience, and meticulous preparation, the team has positioned itself as a leading contender.
If execution matches ambition, Manthey could finally convert its recent consistency into a landmark eighth overall victory at the Nürburgring 24 Hours.
