Three favorites for the overall title must maintain their focus
Fierce competition across all categories in the fastest one-make cup in the Benelux
Zonhoven, 12 September 2024 - With just two race weekends remaining, each featuring two 30-minute races plus one lap, the Porsche Carrera Cup Benelux 2024 is entering its decisive phase. This weekend, the championship heads to Austria’s Red Bull Ring, with the final showdown scheduled at Circuit Zolder on 11-13 October. The title battles remain wide open across the board, making it unlikely that any championships will be decided this weekend in Austria - though anything is possible.
The Porsche Carrera Cup Benelux joins the prestigious GT Open Championship for the first time this weekend. This renowned GT3 series, featuring top teams and drivers, will host the action at the iconic Red Bull Ring, Austria’s F1 circuit. This track has been a fixture on the Porsche Carrera Cup Benelux calendar for years, and last year’s title was clinched here. As the title race heats up once more, the championship will be decided in Belgium at the season finale in Zolder, during a weekend that also features European NASCAR and the Belcar endurance championship.
Top three in the title hunt—or could there be surprises?
With two rounds left and 102 points still up for grabs, the championship remains mathematically wide open. However, three drivers have emerged as clear frontrunners for the overall title: Dirk Schouten (Q1 Trackracing, 133 points), Paul Meijer (Hans Weijs Motorsport, 124 points), and Benjamin Paque (D’Ieteren Luxury Performance, 105 points). Together, these drivers have secured six of the season's eight wins, making them the favorites for the 2024 title.
However, several competitors are poised to capitalize on any mistakes by the leaders. Sam Jongejan (Team RaceArt, 94 points) scored maximum points at Assen and remains in striking distance. Meanwhile, Kobe Pauwels (D’Ieteren Luxury Performance, 84 points) and Niels Langeveld (Q1 Trackracing, 84 points) are also well-positioned to make a move. Additionally, Kalle Rovanperä (RedAnt Racing), with 70 points, may not be in the title race, but his speed and victory at Imola make him a wildcard in the final rounds.
Battles in every class
In the Rookie class, the fight is primarily between two contenders: Kobe Pauwels and Sam Jongejan. Pauwels leads with 177 points, while Jongejan follows with 156 points. The Red Bull Ring holds special significance for Jongejan, as he made his debut here last season and returns with valuable track experience.
The PRO-AM class also features a tight duel between Jules Grouwels (Team RaceArt) and Jani Käkelä (39 Racing). Käkelä leads with 156 points, but Grouwels trails closely with 152 points. Meanwhile, in the team standings, Q1 Trackracing (219 points) holds a narrow lead over D’Ieteren Luxury Performance (190 points), setting up an exciting finish.
Key weekend schedule at the Red Bull Ring:
Friday: Free practice sessions (8:10 and 12:50, 40 minutes each)
Saturday: Qualifying (11:00) and Race 1 (17:05)
Sunday: Race 2 (12:05)
Both races are 30 minutes plus one lap.
Watch the action:
Streaming: YouTube and carreracupbenelux.com
Live timing: carreracupbenelux.com
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