Is Porsche returning to F1?

By: James Robinson, Unique Cars magazine

Date: 13.07.2017

This could spice things up a bit

According to a story by Auto Motor und Sport, Aston Martin and Cosworth weren’t the only surprise marques present at last week’s Formula 1 Power Unit Working Group meeting, Porsche representatives were also in attendance.

This could mean that Porsche is considering a return to Formula 1 after a lengthy hiatus as a power unit supplier for the new 2021 regulation engines.

Auto Motor und Sport suggested that Porsche has become uninterested with the World Endurance Championship (WEC), thanks to pretty much total domination in the championship since their return in 2014, and is looking for other endeavours in the crucible of motorsport.

It’s not like the Stuttgart firm doesn’t have form in the pinnacle of motorsport, Porsche has had affiliations with F1 since the ‘60s, and, it developed and produced highly successful, TAG branded engines in the turbo era of Formula 1 between 1983 and 1988. In fact, TAG-Porsche powered cars took home two constructors titles in 1984 and 1985, and three driver’s championships in 1984, 1985 and 1986.

What’s more, apparently much of the technology from their WEC 919 hybrid sports car is easily transferrable to the next generation of F1 engines, meaning that Porsche may already have a leg up on the competition.

Whatever the case, it would be nice to see some more competitive engine suppliers in the mix in Formula 1. And remember, it was McLaren that reaped the rewards of Porsche developed engines in the mid ‘80s. 

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