SPORTSCAR

Since 1997, Porsche has supported talented youngsters on their path to becoming professional drivers through an exemplary youth development programme. Timo Bernhard, Marc Lieb and Earl Bamber are three examples of successful racing drivers who – over and above their world championship titles and Le Mans victories – have one thing in common: All three honed the skills for their remarkable careers in the Porsche Junior Programme. Traditionally, the Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup has provided the stage for the young guns. This is where the juniors selected by Porsche can put their skills to the test. The international one-make cup is contested as part of the Formula 1 support programme and is considered one of the toughest series in the world. For the last 25 years, the Supercup has been the perfect training ground for this popular junior initiative. As a new protégé, Laurin Heinrich will kick off his maiden season as a Porsche Junior at the support race to the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix in Imola on April 24. It is now confirmed that the 20-year-old German will drive the ca. 375 kW (510 hp) 911 GT3 Cup, generation 992, fielded by the SSR Huber Racing team.