South Africa is exporting one of its most successful racing formulas to Germany.
Volkswagen Motorsport announced a partnership with Maraco Management, a Marketing, Racing and Consulting agency, to bring back motorsport in Germany through the Polo Cup Series in 2026.
“Partnering with Maraco Management to introduce the Polo Cup Series in Germany is an exciting milestone for 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 the support they need to succeed both on the track and in their careers, as we continue to build on Volkswagen’s rich motorsport heritage,” says Mike Rowe, Head of Volkswagen Motorsport.
The series will feature a Polo GTI Cup powered by a 2-litre; 220kW turbo-charged engine equipped with a sequential 6-speed gearbox. These cars are proudly built at the Volkswagen plant in Kariega and will be supplied by Volkswagen Motorsport South Africa.
As part of the partnership, a driver exchange programme is being developed between Volkswagen Motorsport South Africa and Maraco Management. This programme will give young talent the opportunity to grow in the sport.
“This partnership highlights the strength of international collaboration in motorsport, bringing together diverse expertise, innovation and a shared passion for racing. 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,” says Thorsten Williams of Maraco Management.
Additionally, Volkswagen Motorsport South Africa will provide technical support while Maraco Management will offer driver coaching, media training, data coaching and sports mental training; ensuring that every competitor is equipped with the skills needed to excel on and off the track.
“This partnership marks an important step in strengthening Volkswagen Motorsport’s presence in global motorsport. The Polo Cup Series in 2026 will be a key development for both brands and for the future of motorsport,” Mike concludes.
Many forward-thinking individuals propose that autonomous vehicles will improve road safety as problematic driver behaviour, which contributes to 90% plus crashes, will be eliminated. A recent incident may cause some to doubt this, however.
South Africa’s vehicle market has seen a steady influx of emerging brands, alongside continued expansion from established players.
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I have bad reflexes. I was once run over by a car being pushed by two guys
Woody Allen
Many forward-thinking individuals propose that autonomous vehicles will improve road safety as problematic driver behaviour, which contributes to 90% plus crashes, will be eliminated. A recent incident may cause some to doubt this, however.
South Africa’s vehicle market has seen a steady influx of emerging brands, alongside continued expansion from established players.
Motorists travelling over the Easter period can expect heavy traffic across South Africa’s road network, with authorities warning that routes to Limpopo will come under particular pressure as thousands of pilgrims make their way to Moria.
