Akshay Gupta Takes on New Challenge in 2026 NLS
Synopsis
Akshay Gupta, the talented Indian racecar driver, is set to elevate his endurance racing career by joining Sorg Rennsport for the 2026 Nurburgring Langstrecken-Serie, including the esteemed Nurburgring 24 Hours. His journey reflects significant growth and ambition in the competitive world of GT racing.
Key Takeaways
Akshay Gupta joins Sorg Rennsport for the 2026 NLS.
He will drive the #949 Porsche Cayman GT4 CS in the Cup3 class .
Gupta has achieved six podium finishes and two wins in his previous races.
The NLS features 10 races, including the prestigious Nurburgring 24 Hours .
Gupta is the only Indian driver competing in the full NLS championship for the third consecutive year.
Nurburg (Germany), March 13 (NationPress) Indian racecar driver Akshay Gupta is poised to advance his career in endurance racing by joining Sorg Rennsport for the upcoming Nurburgring Langstrecken‑Serie (NLS) and the Nurburgring 24 Hours.
At 33 years old, Gupta, hailing from Ahmedabad, India, will pilot the #949 Porsche Cayman GT4 CS in the competitive Cup3 class, part of the Porsche Endurance Trophy Nürburgring (PETN), known for its fierce competition.
He will split driving responsibilities with Darian Donkel, a 19-year-old German driver and former teammate from Mertens Motorsport in 2025, alongside fellow German racer Aaron Wenisch.
Having spent three seasons in the VT2 production classes with Hyundai and BMW, Gupta now steps into the highly sought-after Cup3 class. During his previous stint, he achieved six podium finishes and two victories.
“The past three years in the production classes have been invaluable. I aimed to reach certain milestones before making my ascent in the GT racing hierarchy,” stated Gupta.
“The GT4 cars represent my next challenge, and I am thrilled to join a skilled and seasoned team. My teammates are fast; I shared a car with Darian at Mertens and the pit box with Aaron in 2023, making our collaboration seamless. I am determined to win the Pro-AM championship this year in the PETN.”
The Cup3 category is part of the Porsche Endurance Trophy Nürburgring, recognized for its large fields and intensely competitive multi-class races. All cars are identical, strictly supplied by Porsche, with limited adjustments available.
The opening race on March 14, 2026, will feature 21 entries in the Cup3 class, emphasizing the crucial role of driver skill in determining race outcomes.
Gupta's new team, Sorg Rennsport, is a prominent name among Porsche endurance teams at the Nürburgring, boasting ten entries in the NLS. The team has celebrated over 50 class wins in both the NLS and RCN.
This season will also see Formula 1 World Champion Max Verstappen competing in the GT3 class with Winward Racing during NLS Round 2 and the Nurburgring 24 Hours.
Once again, Akshay Gupta will represent India on the racing grid, making him the sole Indian driver to compete in the full Nürburgring Langstrecken‑Serie championship for the third consecutive year.
The NLS championship consists of ten races, including nine 4-hour events and one 6-hour race, culminating in the prestigious 24 Hours of Nurburgring.
Point of View
I believe Akshay Gupta's transition to the Cup3 class underlines the growing prominence of Indian drivers in global motorsport. His determination to succeed in such a competitive environment showcases not only his talent but also the increasing recognition of India in the world of endurance racing.
NationPress
7 Jul 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Akshay Gupta?
Akshay Gupta is a 33-year-old Indian racecar driver from Ahmedabad, currently competing in the Nurburgring Langstrecken-Serie with Sorg Rennsport.
What car will Gupta be racing?
He will be racing the #949 Porsche Cayman GT4 CS in the Cup3 class.
What is the Nurburgring Langstrecken-Serie?
The Nurburgring Langstrecken-Serie (NLS) is a prestigious endurance racing series held at the Nurburgring, featuring multiple classes and renowned drivers.
What are Gupta's goals for the season?
Gupta aims to win the Pro-AM championship in the Porsche Endurance Trophy Nürburgring this season.
How many races are in the NLS championship?
The NLS championship consists of ten races, including nine 4-hour events and one 6-hour race, culminating in the Nurburgring 24 Hours.
