Retired four-time Formula One world champion Sebastian Vettel is set to make a surprising return to the racing circuit. The 36-year-old German driver will test the Porsche Penske Motorsport 963 hybrid hypercar at the Motorland Aragon circuit in Spain next week as part of a rigorous 36-hour endurance test.
Vettel, who left Formula One at the end of the 2022 season, has already spent time in the simulator and completed test laps at Porsche’s Weissach test track on Thursday. His involvement with Porsche’s Le Mans hypercar program has sparked excitement among motorsport enthusiasts worldwide, including a growing fanbase in Asia.
“I’m very curious about the hypercar and the Porsche Penske Motorsport team,” Vettel said in a statement. “Endurance racing has always fascinated me, and I’m looking forward to experiencing the dynamics of the Porsche 963.”
Porsche Penske Motorsport is preparing for the 24 Hours of Le Mans, one of the most prestigious events in motorsport, which attracts a significant global audience, including a rising number of fans from Asia. The inclusion of Vettel in the testing phase adds a new dimension to the team’s efforts and increases anticipation for the upcoming race.
The resurgence of endurance racing and hypercar competitions has caught the attention of Asian investors and automotive enthusiasts. Vettel’s return may further stimulate interest in the sport across the region, potentially influencing market dynamics and fostering new opportunities in motorsport-related industries.
As Vettel steps back into the driver’s seat, his participation not only marks a personal milestone but also highlights the interconnectedness of global motorsport communities. His experience and expertise are expected to contribute significantly to Porsche’s development program, and fans worldwide will be keenly observing his performance.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
