More than 9,500 people from around the world traveled to Costa Mesa, California, over the weekend, confirming Air|Water 2026 as a permanent fixture on the area’s vibrant automotive calendar. Returning to the OC Fair & Event Center for the third time, Air|Water 2026 expanded its formula, with around 800 cars and more than 50 private vendors joined by a landmark new addition to the Porsche story.
Highlights
- Air|Water 2026 in Costa Mesa, California, marked the US premiere of the Porsche 911 GT3 S/C.
- More than 9,500 visitors and 800 vehicles gathered at the OC Fair & Event Center
- The event highlights 75 years of Porsche Motorsport, including icons such as the 962.
- Exhibited publicly for the first time by Porsche Cars North America, the 911 GT3 S/C was in good company, surrounded by some of the most famous models from its history. Whether attendees were lifelong followers or exploring the community for the first time, Air|Water 2026 delivered a compelling celebration of the marque.
Air|Water showcases the history of Porsche
Beginning in 2023 as an add-on day for Luftgekühlt – the highly curated showcase of air-cooled Porsche models co-founded by Patrick Long – Air|Water’s position as a more inclusive display of the entire Porsche story was quickly established. Welcoming all Porsche models, Air|Water became a stand-alone show in 2024 at its now permanent home in Costa Mesa. It has since ventured overseas, with a show in Poland last year, but organizers intend for Costa Mesa to remain an annual fixture on Porsche enthusiasts’ calendars.
75 years of Porsche Motorsport
Heroes from the racetrack were in focus this year as Porsche celebrates 75 years of motorsport. Among the cars on display were several 962 prototypes. Event partner Dunlop provided a strong link to that story. Driven in the 1980s by Derek Bell, Hans-Joachim Stuck, Jochen Mass, and Mario Andretti, it was one of the final works entrants from Porsche in the Group C prototype era. It was joined by a late 962 in F.A.T. International colors. Originally a logistics sponsor, F.A.T. has since been revived by Ferdinand Porsche as a lifestyle brand for enthusiasts. AO Racing displayed ‘Rexy’, its 911 GT3 R, successful in both IMSA and the WEC.
Appearance of Sally Carrera
This was exemplified by the appearance of Sally Carrera, a one-off Porsche 911 Carrera GTS inspired by the ‘Cars’ film franchise.
Public debut of the Porsche 911 GT3 S/C
Media and invited guests drove Angeles Crest Highway in GT3 and GT Touring models, joining Porsche Director GT Product Line Andreas Preuninger en route to the popular Friday ‘Good Vibes Breakfast Club’ at Newcomb’s Ranch.
With Air|Water 2026 larger than ever, planning is already underway for next year and beyond. “It has real potential to evolve and plenty of room for growth,” concludes Zwart. “Starting with Luftgekühlt, it was natural to create something more inclusive. With car reveals, vendors and auctions, I’m excited about where it is today – and where it can go next.”
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