South African racing star Jonathan Mogotsi is taking the biggest step of his career yet, as Volkswagen confirms his path to the legendary Nürburgring 24-Hour race in 2026. The reigning SATC SupaCup champion will represent Volkswagen Motorsport South Africa as part of the Max Kruse Racing team, piloting a Volkswagen Golf 8 TCR at one of the world’s most demanding endurance races.
From South Africa to the Green Hell
Often referred to as the “Green Hell,” the Nürburgring is a proving ground for the world’s best drivers. Mogotsi will earn his coveted Grade A Nürburgring licence by competing in the NLS1 and NLS2 four-hour endurance races, which serve as official qualifiers for the 24-Hour event in May 2026.
This route mirrors that of elite international drivers and marks a historic milestone for the Johannesburg-based racer, who has spent a decade rising through the ranks of Volkswagen Motorsport.
Racing with Max Kruse and Volkswagen AG Support
Mogotsi will join Max Kruse Racing, a top-tier Nürburgring team running three Volkswagen Golf 8 TCRs with factory backing from Volkswagen AG. He has been assigned to Car 2 in the team’s Nürburgring lineup.
“I’m absolutely delighted to take this next step in my Volkswagen Motorsport journey,” said Mogotsi. “Qualifying for and racing in the Nürburgring 24-Hour is a dream come true.”
Volkswagen Motorsport Head Mike Rowe echoed the excitement, describing the programme as one of the brand’s most ambitious projects in recent years.
Mogotsi’s journey
Inspirational as it is unconventional. Before turning professional, he honed his racecraft in sim racing, winning multiple online championships and narrowly missing out on international GT opportunities.
Everything changed in 2016, when he won the Volkswagen Driver Search, earning a seat in the Engen Volkswagen Polo Cup. From there, his career gained momentum:
- Polo Cup race winner and title contender
- Multiple SupaCup victories
- SATC SupaCup Champion in 2024
- Runner-up again in 2025
Throughout it all, Mogotsi has remained loyal to the Volkswagen brand, becoming one of South Africa’s most respected and popular touring car drivers.
Beyond circuit racing, Mogotsi has built an impressive reputation in hill climbing, scoring multiple class wins at events such as the Knysna Simola Hillclimb. In 2026, he is also set to compete at:
- Simola Hillclimb
- Zwartkops Top of the Hill
- Cape Town Speed Festival
He is additionally scheduled for guest drives in the Polo Cup Germany, further strengthening his international profile.
What’s Next for Volkswagen Motorsport?
Volkswagen Motorsport South Africa will soon unveil its full 2026 Motorsport Program, including:
- The 30th anniversary Astron Energy Polo Cup
- The Volkswagen Rookie Cup
- Continued involvement in SATC SupaCup
- International endurance and hillclimb projects
