Closed Cockpit an Eye-Opener for Sebastian Vettel at Porsche Penske Test

Four-time Formula 1 champion Sebastian Vettel was in the learning seat this week during a marathon 36-hour test of the Porsche Penske Motorsport Porsche 963 LMDh hypercar at Motorland Aragon in Spain.

Vettel completed 118 laps (361 miles) on the 3.32-mile circuit.

And, yes, it was an eye-opener for Vettel, who retired as a F1 driver following the 2022 season.

"Of course, I also keep an eye on other motorsport disciplines and know many drivers who are active in the WEC and Le Mans," Vettel said. "At some point, my curiosity was so great that I had the idea of trying it out myself. Porsche gave me the opportunity to test a current hypercar with the 963.

"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 tires. 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."

Vettlel and seven Porsche factory drivers participated in the test geared toward Porsche Penske Motorsports' upcoming Le Mans 24 Hours effort.

"Aragón is one of the few places in Europe where we can run around the clock," said Jonathan Diuguid, managing director Porsche Penske Motorsport. "It gives us an opportunity to run 36 hours straight in preparation for Le Mans. The quite long back straight that gives us the top speed of more than 186 mph we see on the Circuit des 24 Heures.

"Having Sebastian Vettel here is a unique opportunity for the team. He is a four-time Formula 1 World Champion. He has massive experience with hybrid systems and high-performance racing cars. Having his fresh unique perspective on where the car is and gives feedback on our systems and performances is a unique opportunity. We are happy to have him here. He came out of the car with a smile which is all good."

Vettel said ahead of the test that there are currently no plans for him to race with Porsche Penske Motorsports.