F1 News: Sebastian Vettel completes MAJOR grand prix track test ahead of comeback

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Vettel completes MAJOR grand prix track test ahead of comeback

Sebastian Vettel comes back for a grand prix track test.

Sheona Mountford

Wednesday 27 March 2024 09:57

Four-time world champion Sebastian Vettel has made a racing comeback after completing an on-track test.

The Formula 1 legend bowed out of the sport at the end of 2022, and has since been enjoying retirement with his family.

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Vettel was also seen at the Japanese Grand Prix in 2023 where he launched his ‘insect hotel’ named Buzzin’ Corner to promote biodiversity at the Suzuka track.

Since then his name has been thrown into the mix in relation to the Audi project and the vacant Mercedes seat for 2025.

Sebastian Vettel has returned to the track

Vettel makes a comeback at endurance test

Despite these rumours, Vettel’s most recent outing on track was at the MotoGP track Motorland, Aragón for an endurance test.

The German drove the Porsche 963 for Porsche Penske Motorsport, in preparation for the 24 Hours of Le Mans in June.

Vettel arrived well prepared, practising a few kilometres on March 21 with an in-house test at Weissach Development Centre.

Vettel said on the testing experience: "Of course, I also keep an eye on other motorsport disciplines and know many drivers who are active in the WEC and Le Mans. At some point, my curiosity was so great that I had the idea of trying it out myself.

Sebastian Vettel Porsche Aragon Test 2024

“Porsche gave me the opportunity to test a current hypercar with the 963. After the seat adjustment, the simulator session and the roll-out in Weissach, I already had a good feeling.

“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. The driving experience is different simply because of the roof over your head, as well as dealing with the higher weight and the tyres.

“The Porsche works drivers were very helpful and explained to me what was special and what I needed to get used to. That made it easy for me."

Mercedes Toto Wolff Sebastian Vettel Audi Japanese Grand Prix