Sebastian Vettel completes test with Porsche 963 hypercar
Four-time F1 World Champion Sebastian Vettel logged nearly 600km in Porsche's 963 Le Mans Hypercar during a comprehensive test at Aragon Circuit.
Aragon endurance run
Over four stints at the Spanish circuit, Sebastian Vettel accumulated an impressive 581km behind the wheel of Porsche Penske Motorsport's 963 prototype, closing in on two full grand prix distances.
A new experience
The German admitted the closed-cockpit 963 offered a stark contrast to his open-wheel roots.
"The driving experience is different simply because of the roof over your head, as well as dealing with the higher weight and the tyres,"
Vettel remarked.
He credited Porsche's works drivers for easing his adaptation:
"They were very helpful and explained what was special and what I needed to get used to. That made it easy for me."
Simulator to reality
Vettel's first taste came via Porsche's simulator before a brief run at Weissach.
However, he acknowledged the Aragon test allowed him to truly experience the 963's capabilities.
"Driving the Porsche 963 on the track here in Aragon – that was definitely fun. I first had to get used to everything and find my rhythm."
Endurance prospects?
The 53-time F1 race winner had preliminary talks with Porsche customer team Jota about a 2023 WEC drive.
While downplaying immediate plans, Vettel's interest in endurance racing is evident.
"At some point, my curiosity was so great that I had the idea of trying it out myself,"
he admitted.
Valuable feedback
Porsche was eager to tap into Vettel's wealth of experience. Team manager Jonathan Diuguid hailed the "unique opportunity" to gain the four-time champion's perspective ahead of their Le Mans quest.
"Having his fresh unique perspective on where the car is and [his] feedback on our systems and performances is a unique opportunity."
A successful outing
Vettel's smile at the end of his first substantial prototype run spoke volumes.
"He came out of the car with a smile which is all good,"
Diuguid affirmed.
As Porsche gears up for the 24 Hours of Le Mans, Sebastian Vettel's promising adaptation bodes well for any potential future forays into endurance racing's top echelon.
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