Porsche likely to tie again with Formula One
The Paris Motor Show has been more than just a show as many of the sports news and gossips seem to have evolved there this time. One fascinating report arising from Paris now is the return of Porsche to Formula One.
Earlier, Media reports had suggested that the German automobile manufacturer, Volkswagen is planning to enter in Formula One when the new contracts for engines would be signed for 2013 season.
Now, the new Chairman of Porsche, Matthias Mueller said in an interview that Porsche could soon be seen on the Formula One grid. Reports add that the company has not yet taken its final decision but still either Audi or Porsche would be seen in Formula One
soon.
Porsche and Audi are two automotive manufacturers tied to the Volkswagen Group, the parent company of Audi. Mueller maintained that he expects to see a more active future role for his company in the various motorsporting activities. He further added that
he is looking forward to see either Porsche or Audi enter the Le Mans Prototype (LMP) class, while the other would be a part of Formula One. He feels that taking both the companies to the same series doesn't make sense.
Mueller stated, "With LMP1, there are two classes and two brands - Audi and Porsche. We do not like to both go into LMP1 [against each other]; that is not so funny. Therefore, we have to discuss whether it makes better sense for one of the [two] brands to
go into LMP1, and the other brand into F1. So, we will have a round-table to discuss the pros and cons."
Audi is already an old and loyal participant of LMP as it started off with the series in 1999 and had stayed till now. Currently, it is working on its 2011 car - the R18. While on the other hand, Porsche had made the last sports car in its factory in 1998.
But, it has been making cars for some of its customer teams participating in LMP2 RS Spyder since 2005.
The last time Porsche took part in a Formula One season as a team was in 1991. Its return is expected to be embraced warmly. There are more rumors that Porsche would not return as a team to Formula One rather it would only be providing engines, once the
new contracts with the engine suppliers are signed in 2013.
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