Porsche’s youth development program started in 1997. Since then, 19 of its graduates have found jobs as professional racers. Of those, you’ll probably recognize names like Timo Bernhard, Marc Lieb, Patrick Long, Michael Christensen and Earl Bamber; all are current Porsche factory drivers with Bamber clinching victory at the 24 Hours of Le Mans at the wheel of a Porsche 919 Hybrid LMP1. In other words, the program works and works well.
If you’re a young driver and you have what it takes, you can apply to become a Porsche Junior for the 2016 motorsport season. However, only the young and fit need apply. You must have been born between January 1st, 1994 and February 28th, 1998. You will have to prove your experience in a current touring car and/or single-seater series that doesn’t include a full season in a Porsche Carrera Cup, Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge or in a higher level GT series.
Two Stage Selection Process
If your application is chosen it doesn’t mean you’re in. Next is a two-stage selection process where your fitness and driving capabilities will be put to the test. Those that make it through and get selected can count on the following support:
- A contract with Porsche AG
- Support in the Porsche Carrera Cup Deutschland series
- 150,000 Euros in funding (down from 200,000) last year)
- Former Porsche factory driver Sascha Maassen as personal mentor
- Support similar to Porsche’s factory drivers including:
- constantly adapted training plans
- Media coaching
- Help with sponsors and more
Those who use their time in the program the best and do will in the Porsche Carrera Cup Deutschland get the opportunity to move up to the Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup. Should they be successful at this level, they might just become the next Porsche factory driver.