VOLKSWAGEN MOTORSPORT TAKES SA-BASED CARS FROM THE POLO CUP SERIES TO GERMANY
Volkswagen Motorsport is gearing up to bring the thrill of racing back to Germany, announcing a powerhouse partnership with MARACO Management to launch the Polo Cup Series in 2026. This move not only revives one of Germany’s most iconic racing platforms but also strengthens VW’s global motorsport presence, cementing its commitment to developing young talent and pushing the boundaries of racing innovation. At the heart of this initiative is the collaboration between Volkswagen Motorsport and MARACO Management - a dynamic marketing, racing, and consulting agency. Together, they’re crafting a series that blends high-performance machinery with a structured development program, creating a true proving ground for up-and-coming racing talent. “Partnering with MARACO Management to introduce the Polo Cup Series in Germany is an exciting milestone for Volkswagen Motorsport,” said Mike Rowe, Head of Volkswagen Motorsport. “This partnership reflects our commitment to nurturing emerging talent, advancing motorsport technology, and expanding our footprint globally. We are eager to provide drivers with the tools, training, and support they need to succeed both on the track and in their careers, as we continue to build on Volkswagen’s rich motorsport heritage.” With the rise of electrification and the ever-evolving landscape of motorsport, Volkswagen remains dedicated to fostering driver development and ensuring that internal combustion racing continues to thrive. The Polo Cup Series is set to deliver high-intensity competition, bringing fresh energy to Germany’s motorsport scene. Powering the championship is the Polo GTI Cup - a proper track weapon that means business. Under the hood sits a turbocharged 2.0-litre powerplant that pushes out a healthy 220 kW of power, channelled through a sequential 6-speed gearbox for rapid-fire shifts. These racecars have been designed and built at Volkswagen’s Kariega plant right here in South Africa, and they will be supplied by Volkswagen Motorsport South Africa, a team with a proven track record in producing top-tier racing hardware.
The Polo GTI Cup cars are engineered to deliver close-quarters, wheel-to-wheel racing, staying true to the legacy of one-make Volkswagen championships. The series will place driver skill at the forefront, ensuring the most talented racers rise to the top in a highly competitive field. A key highlight of the partnership is the driver exchange program between Volkswagen Motorsport South Africa and MARACO Management. This initiative aims to provide young drivers with international exposure, allowing them to compete on different circuits, adapt to diverse racing conditions, and broaden their skill sets. Motorsport has always been a global language, and this collaboration ensures the next generation of talent gains experience beyond their home country.
“This partnership highlights the strength of international collaboration in motorsport, bringing together diverse expertise, innovation, and a shared passion for racing,” said Thorsten Williams of MARACO Management. “It showcases how working across borders can create powerful synergies and drive progress in the sport, setting the stage for groundbreaking achievements and a truly global impact.” Racing is about more than just raw speed. To help drivers reach their full potential, the Polo Cup Series will feature a comprehensive driver development program, blending technical expertise with mental and physical preparation. Volkswagen Motorsport South Africa will provide technical support, ensuring the cars are set up for peak performance, while MARACO Management will handle driver coaching, media training, data coaching, and sports mental training. From understanding telemetry to mastering the art of racecraft, competitors will receive all the tools necessary to refine their abilities both on and off the track. This approach isn’t just about creating fast drivers—it’s about shaping complete athletes who can thrive in the modern motorsport landscape. “This partnership marks an important step in strengthening Volkswagen Motorsport’s presence in global motorsport,” Rowe concluded. “The Polo Cup Series in 2026 will be a key development for both brands and for the future of motorsport.”
Take a look at the YouTube video from back in 2023 when one of these awesome Polo Cup cars did what was needed to kick ass in GTC Supa Cup - you can see why it will be a favoured car for racing in German the equivalent German series: GTC Supa Cup Round 1 Recap – 2023 | Volkswagen SA
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