The pieces are falling into place regarding a move to Formula 1, says Porsche’s newly appointed head of motorsports, Thomas Laudenbach. Although no decision has been made, there’s a possibility that the German automaker may soon be on the starting grid.
“It’s not a secret that we are thinking about [F1],” Laudenbach told Autosport. “It’s not a secret we are talking to the FIA and it’s not a secret that we are, let’s say, seriously considering it. But there is no decision made yet.”
The company still has a few details it wants to work through, said Laudenbach, but the appeal of the sport is strong enough to attract the brand. However, Porsche is specifically concerned that Formula 1 continues to move towards heavier electrification.
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“We would like to see more standard parts in the engine, the freedom of electric parts,” Laudenbach said, adding that putting even more limits on spending would also increase the likelihood of Porsche committing to the sport. But the prospects are good and the company understands the importance of decisiveness.
“Yes, many of the factors that I mentioned from what we know, they might be coming true,” he added. “One thing is clear, if such a decision is made you can’t wait too long because if you want to race in 2025 you have to start at a certain time. That’s where we are.”
Laudenbach believes that entering Formula 1 makes sense when new power unit rules put more of an emphasis on electrification and the current powertrains are retired: “If somebody really thinks about entering this championship as a power unit manufacturer, you should always combine that with a major change in the rules so that everybody has to make step and you’re not the only one.”
In any case, with all of the attention that Formula 1 has been getting lately, its appeal to Porsche is only growing. With any luck, Porsche fans will soon be able to look forward to seeing the brand compete in the top open-wheel racing series in the world.
