Sebastian Vettel, the four-time Formula 1 world champion, may be making a return to top-level racing in 2024. Talks between Vettel and Jota Porsche, a customer team currently competing in the World Endurance Championship with a Porsche 963 LMDh, have been initiated to potentially secure Vettel’s involvement in the team’s expanded two-car entry in the Hypercar class of the 2024 World Endurance Championship.
In an interview with Motorsport.com, Sam Hignett, the team principal of Jota Porsche, confirmed that discussions with Vettel were underway but emphasized that no deal had yet been finalized. He stated, “We are speaking to Seb, there are discussions, but nothing is done. There isn’t any kind of contract signed and he certainly hasn’t tested one of our cars.”
Hignett further revealed that Jenson Button, another former Formula 1 champion, and Robert Kubica, a former Formula 1 driver currently participating in the LMP2 category, are also being considered as potential drivers for the team’s lineup.
One of the major advantages for Vettel in joining Jota Porsche is the opportunity to compete in the Hypercar class and aim for victory at the renowned 24 Hours of Le Mans, the flagship event of the World Endurance Championship. Winning Le Mans would bring Vettel closer to accomplishing the elusive Triple Crown of motorsport, a feat only achieved by the late British driver Graham Hill. The Triple Crown encompasses victories at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, Monaco Grand Prix, and Indianapolis 500. Currently, Vettel has only claimed victory at the Monaco Grand Prix.
Hignett expressed confidence in the team’s financial stability, highlighting their sponsorship deals with Hertz and Singer. The partnership with Singer, a renowned luxury brand specializing in restorations and modifications of Porsche cars, resulted in the creation of a striking gold livery for the Jota Porsche 963.
Sebastian Vettel retired from Formula 1 at the conclusion of the 2022 season after a remarkable career that saw him clinch four world championships. All four of his titles were won with Red Bull Racing, but he also competed with BMW Sauber, Toro Rosso (now known as AlphaTauri), Ferrari, and Aston Martin throughout his tenure in the sport. With his potential return to racing in the World Endurance Championship, Vettel could add to his already impressive list of achievements.
While talks are still at an early stage and no agreements have been reached, the prospect of Sebastian Vettel joining Jota Porsche and making a comeback to top-level racing in 2024 has generated significant anticipation among motorsport fans and professionals alike. The potential collaboration could bring a tremendous boost of excitement and anticipation to the World Endurance Championship, further intensifying the competition in the Hypercar class. As the negotiations progress, racing enthusiasts eagerly await further updates regarding Sebastian Vettel’s future in motorsport.