Güven's future after DTM title uncertain

No immediate commitment to stay

Ayhancan Güven celebrated a historic DTM title in 2025, becoming the series“ first Turkish champion. Yet the 27-year-old Manthey-Porsche driver has not committed himself after the season. According to himself, his future will be decided ”in the coming weeks"; he mentions several options and points to changes within motorsport.

After the DTM finale, as far as we know, Güven did not give an interview announcing he would defend his title. This begs the question: does he even want to return to the DTM or does something else beckon?

America may be pulling

One of the most frequently mentioned scenarios takes place in the United States. Multiple sources sound that Güven is being linked to a programme in the IMSA series. Manthey itself is entering IMSA in 2026 with a Pro car, but is concentrating on the Endurance Cup, or the five long-distance races Daytona, Sebring, Watkins Glen, Road America and Petit Le Mans.

In addition, Laurin Heinrich has been named as a candidate for the Porsche-Penske LMDh programme, which will continue in the US after the WEC outing. AO Racing, the strong Porsche team where Heinrich drove in 2025 and known for its “Rexy” design, is also a possible employer if Güven drives a full IMSA season.

Formula E: opportunity or illusion?

Güven stood out during the Formula E rookie test in Berlin, despite his lack of formula experience. This immediately sparked rumours of a switch to the electric class. For Güven, who is currently paid by assignment as a contracted driver, a factory title in Formula E could be attractive.

Yet the spots at Porsche are already largely filled. Pascal Wehrlein and Nico Müller have been confirmed for the factory team. The drivers at Andretti (Jake Dennis and Felipe Drugovich) and Kiro-Cupra (Dan Ticktum and Pepe Marti) are also known. That composition leaves little room for an additional seat at those teams.

• Possible options for Güven in 2026: IMSA Endurance campaign with Manthey.
• Full IMSA season for AO Racing (Rexy team).
• A factory title in Formula E - currently unlikely due to occupied seats.
• Staying in the DTM and defending his title.

What does this mean for the DTM?

Güven is also supported by Red Bull. At Porsche, it sounds that they can see other roles for Güven than just the DTM, especially in contrast to a driver like Thomas Preining, whose qualities are best showcased in the more traditional DTM set-up with one driver per car. That increases the chances of the series losing its new champion.

The DTM could thus face not only the departure of Rene Rast in 2026, but possibly that of the reigning champion. A final choice from Güven has not yet been made; expect clarity in the coming weeks.