PORSCHE CONFIRMS INTEREST IN F1 RETURN
Porsche indicates interest in Formula 1 return – Photo: LAT
Porsche has given it’s strongest indication yet of a possible return to Formula 1 after its deputy chairman attended the Italian Grand Prix last weekend.
The news comes off the back of Porsche’s recent announcement its departure from LMP1 in favour of a factory-backed team in Formula E from 2019-20 season.
The German manufacturer has joined Cosworth and Aston Martin in expressing interest in returning to F1 as an engine supplier under the proposed 2021 regulations after Lutz Meschke, Deputy Chairman of Porsche’s Executive Board, held meetings with Ross Brawn and other F1 chiefs at Monza.
“F1 could be one of the right places,” Meschke told Autosport overnight.
“As you know Formula E is very important for us now, and F1 is always a good topic to think about.
“And I think we are in quite good discussions regarding the new engine.”
Although added that the “discussions are around being a supplier”, and not full factory effort like Mercedes or Ferrari.
Porsche was last involved in F1 with Footwork in 1991 – Photo: LAT
Porsche was last involved in Formula 1 with the Footwork team during their disastrous 1991 season, but prior to that had a successful relationship with McLaren between 1983-87 with TAG branded Porsche engines.
F1’s commercial chief Sean Bratches confirmed that Liberty Media, the new owners of Formula 1, would be keen to have Porsche involved in 2021.
“Ultimately we’re trying to create a platform and environment where more engine manufacturers and brands and teams come into this sport and make it a compelling business proposition to do so,” Bratches told Autosport.
“The inclusion of Porsche, which is a heritage racing brand in our sport, would be highly valued.”
We have more of the latest news out of the Formula 1 paddock in the next issue of Auto Action Magazine, on sale Thursday. In the meantime follow us on social media Facebook, Twitter, Instagram or sign up for our weekly email newsletter for all the latest updates.
