Shocking return to the track: a F1 world champion comes out of retirement

Shocking return to the track: a F1 world champion comes out of retirement

Jacques Villeneuve is preparing to return to competition by joining the Porsche Supercup, after several years away from the circuits.

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After a long period away from competition, Jacques Villeneuve is about to return to the starting grids. The 1997 Formula 1 world champion will participate this season in the Porsche Supercup, a series held alongside certain Grand Prix events.

The Canadian driver had not competed in a regular program since a brief appearance in the World Endurance Championship in 2023. At the time, he had taken the wheel of a hypercar entered by Floyd Vanwall Racing Team, with his best result being an eighth place at Sebring, before two retirements in the following rounds.

An already rich and unique career

At 55 years old, Villeneuve has an impressive and atypical record, having competed in many disciplines of motorsport. CART champion and winner of the Indianapolis 500 in 1995, he then claimed the ultimate title in Formula 1 two years later.

His occasional entry in the Porsche Supercup thus marks a first in his career, except for a brief experience in the Scandinavian Porsche Carrera Cup, and this highly competitive discipline is often considered a stepping stone or a technical challenge for experienced drivers.

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For this return to the track, Villeneuve will not go unnoticed. His car will feature a special livery inspired by his famous helmet designs (photo above), themselves based on his mother’s colorful sweaters. A visual signature that has become iconic in the paddock since his years in Formula 1.

A season contested as a curtain-raiser for F1

The series has officially announced his participation on its social media, highlighting his status as world champion and his experience in the biggest motorsport disciplines. The organization emphasizes the driver’s aura and record, expected to be a real attraction of the championship.

The Porsche Supercup accompanies several Grand Prix events on the calendar and will include eight rounds in total. The championship will start in Monaco in June, before concluding in Monza in September, two iconic circuits of motorsport.

Villeneuve’s arrival adds an extra dimension to the season, with a former world champion coming to compete against a grid known for its intensity and very even level.

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