Rennsport Reunion is the pinnacle of Porsche gatherings, an unparalleled celebration of the brand’s racing legacy and innovation. After a five-year hiatus, compounded by pandemic related delays, Rennsport Reunion 7 finally returned in 2023, and despite some challenges, it was everything it needed to be.
For those unfamiliar, Rennsport Reunion is the largest Porsche gathering in the world, bringing together enthusiasts, collectors, and racing legends to celebrate Porsche’s rich history. With race groups spanning the full timeline of Porsche’s motorsport heritage, from the early 356s to the modern RS Spyders, there’s something for every fan. Special exhibitions also highlight the brand’s iconic past and its innovative future.
I first experienced this spectacle back in 2018 at Rennsport Reunion VI, and it was an unforgettable experience. The sight of two 917/30s going wheel-to-wheel through a pack of 917/10s, followed by the awe-inspiring 919 Hybrid Evo’s final track appearance, left a lasting impression. I wondered then if any future Rennsport event could top that experience. After a two-year delay and years of anticipation, Rennsport 7 finally arrived, and it didn’t disappoint.
From the moment I arrived on Thursday, I was greeted by the unmistakable roar of the RSR GTEs during their exhibition session. After capturing some shots, I finally witnessed the 919 Hybrid lapping the 2.2-mile course. While it wasn’t the record-breaking 919 Evo, seeing the 2017 WEC-spec 919 on track was no less special.
Saturday, as expected, was the busiest day. With a record-breaking crowd of 91,000 in attendance, the event was sold out for the day. The weather didn’t make things easier, pouring rain caused long lines for shops and exhibits, and even impacted the racing. Many cars in the Stuttgart Cup group, including the legendary 956s, 962s, and RS Spyders, skipped their qualifying session due to the lack of wet-weather tires.
One noticeable difference at Rennsport 7 was the atmosphere in the paddock. The Porsche branding was everywhere, and the paddock itself felt more like a commercial exhibition than a traditional race paddock. This shift in focus was hard to ignore, especially for those who had attended previous reunions.
Another surprising change was the absence of the dedicated 917 exhibition group. In past events, this group was a highlight, showcasing the incredible technological advancements of the 917/10s and 917/30s, which dominated the racing world in their time. While some 917s did race in the Werks Trophy, the absence of a standalone 917 group was felt deeply.
Despite these changes, Rennsport 7 was a triumph in its own right, especially considering the challenges of the past few years. The event may not have lived up to every expectation, but it was a remarkable rebound from the pandemic. As a Porsche enthusiast, I have no doubt that the 8th installment of Rennsport Reunion will surpass all expectations and put the event firmly back on track.
I, for one, will undoubtedly be there.
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