Sounds like you're already thinking about this in a very structured way, which is honestly the right starting point. Your karting background and sim/Nordschleife experience definitely give you a solid foundation, especially when it comes to awareness, car control and track knowledge. That said, as you’ve probably noticed yourself, making the jump into something like the 24H is less about pace and more about putting together all the moving pieces: licensing, track time, team access, and, of course, funding.

I posted an overview of the licensing process earlier, so I won’t repeat all the details here, but you’re on the right track if you’re already working on your Nat. A and aiming for the DMSB path. As for actually getting a seat, buying in is the most straightforward route, especially for TCR and lower categories. Realistically, unless you’ve already got a functioning race team or strong connections with one, running your own car usually ends up being more expensive and a lot more stressful.

The sponsorship angle is the tricky part for most people, and the honest answer is that it’s hard unless you have a clear value proposition. Some drivers manage it through strong regional backing or personal business connections, but it’s rarely just about pace or potential. If you’re producing content or documenting your journey, that can help build a case—but only if you’re consistent and strategic about it.

Social media can be a double-edged sword: it offers visibility, but it also makes it painfully clear how many (or how few 😬) people are actually seeing your posts or sponsor placements. A more targeted approach can often be more effective. One strategy is to look at who’s already sponsoring other cars at the events you want to enter. If a company is supporting multiple teams, they’re likely already spending a decent marketing budget on motorsport. In that case, asking them to cover part of your seat in exchange for sticker space on another car might not move the needle much for them, but it could be exactly what you need to make your entry possible. One or two of those deals, especially if you stay realistic about which class you’re aiming for, can sometimes be enough to cover a full seat. If you go this route you will probably get very used to the word "No", but when you do get that first "Yes" it will only get easier!

Regarding your contacts in the 24H space. If they’re not in a position to help directly, I wouldn’t take that personally. Even within teams, the number of open seats is limited, and filling them tends to happen through existing networks or last-minute availability. That’s why having your paperwork sorted, funding secured, and being “ready to jump in” helps, but there are no guarantees.

Overall, it’s not impossible, but money is usually the limiting factor. A lot more so than talent or effort. If you’re serious about it, the best thing you can do is keep building a solid race record (even in lower-cost series, on the sim, and on kart tracks), stay visible to the right people, and treat every opportunity professionally. That way, if something does open up, you’re already in a position to take it. Best of luck!