Boutsen VDS is making a bold move for the 2026 season, swapping Mercedes-AMG for Porsche in a strategic shift that promises an exciting new chapter in GT racing. The Belgian team, known for its success with Mercedes, is now gearing up for a two-car assault on the GT World Challenge Europe powered by AWS. This move comes after a successful two-season run with Mercedes-AMG, culminating in Silver Cup titles for Aurélien Panis and Cesar Gazeau.
The switch to Porsche is a significant one, as the German manufacturer has also been on a winning streak in 2025, claiming the Endurance Cup title with Rutronik Racing. Boutsen VDS will field two updated 911s in the 10-round championship, with one car shared by a trio of official Porsche drivers, and the second entry's composition to be revealed later.
Among the all-factory Pro lineup is Alessio Picariello, a Belgian-Italian driver with a strong connection to Porsche. His experience with various Porsche outfits, including winning the Endurance title with Rutronik, makes him a valuable asset. Team principal Olivier Lainé expressed his excitement about the new challenge, praising the support of former partners and the collaboration with Marc van der Straten, Rudi Penders, and Lionel Hansen.
Marc van der Straten, the mastermind behind the successful Marc VDS squad, has also committed to the team for another season. He shares Lainé's enthusiasm for the Porsche partnership, highlighting the team's achievements with Mercedes and the potential for even greater success with Porsche. The team's history dates back to 2023 when Boutsen Racing and Marc VDS joined forces, and they've since raced with various manufacturers, including McLaren, BMW, Lamborghini, and Audi.
The 2026 season begins at Circuit Paul Ricard on April 11-12, with Boutsen VDS ready to roar with their new Porsche lineup. The team's ambition is clear: to build on their past successes and achieve even greater glory in the world of GT racing.
