Image: Porsche
Four-time Formula 1 world champion Sebastien Vettel completed 118 laps in the Porsche 963 during a test at Motorland Aragon. This test was part of the German manufacturer’s 36-hour preparation for the upcoming Le Mans race in June.
Vettel, who retired from full-time racing in Formula 1 in 2021, drove the 963 for a total distance of 581 kilometers over two extended periods without encountering any issues. This marked Vettel’s first experience on a racetrack with an LMDh car, as he had previously only driven a virtual version in a simulator to familiarize himself with the car’s complex onboard systems. He also spent time testing the car on Porsche’s in-house track at their headquarters in Weissach, Germany.
Given Vettel’s extensive experience with hybrid machinery from his time with Toro Rosso, Red Bull, Ferrari, and Aston Martin in Formula 1, it is likely that he quickly grasped the workings of the 963’s hybrid system. The test also saw the participation of Porsche’s six FIA World Endurance Championship Hypercar drivers, including Laurens Vanthoor, Kevin Estre, Andre Lotterer, Fred Makowiecki, Matt Campbell, Michael Christensen, and Thomas Preining, who is a Porsche works driver and the 2023 DTM champion.
Vettel expressed his interest in exploring other motorsport disciplines and praised the opportunity given to him by Porsche to test the current hypercar, the 963. He mentioned that after adjusting the seat, going through a simulator session, and conducting a roll-out in Weissach, he already had a good feeling about the car. Driving the Porsche 963 on the Aragon track was a fun experience for Vettel, although he admitted needing some time to adapt to the differences in driving with a roof over his head, managing the increased weight, and handling the tires. The Porsche works drivers provided valuable assistance by explaining the unique aspects of the car and helping Vettel acclimate to them.
Jonathan Diuguid, the managing director of Porsche Penske Motorsport, highlighted the significance of conducting the test at Aragon, as it is one of the few places in Europe where they can run continuously for 36 hours. This allows them to simulate the demanding conditions of the Circuit des 24 Heures at Le Mans, including the long back straight where the cars reach speeds of over 300 km/h.
Diuguid also emphasized the value of having Sebastian Vettel participate in the test. As a four-time Formula 1 world champion with extensive experience in hybrid systems and high-performance racing cars, Vettel’s fresh perspective and feedback on the car’s systems and performance are invaluable to the team. The fact that Vettel exited the car with a smile further demonstrates his positive experience during the test.