Jacques Villeneuve Returns to Racing in Porsche Supercup After Three-Year Hiatus

Jacques Villeneuve is back behind the wheel. The 55-year-old 1997 Formula 1 world champion will drive in the 2026 Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup, ending a three-year break from competitive racing. His entry as a special guest adds star power to the eight-race series that runs alongside Grands Prix, starting at Monaco in early June.

Why it matters:

Villeneuve's return brings a world champion's pedigree to a pure spec series, where driver talent is tested without technical advantages. After a brief, unsuccessful stint in the World Endurance Championship in 2023, this marks his first sustained campaign since then. His presence draws attention to the Supercup and reconnects fans with one of motorsport's most distinctive personalities.

The details:

• Villeneuve last raced competitively in the 2023 WEC, competing in three hypercar races for Floyd Vanwall Racing Team – an eighth at Sebring followed by retirements at Portimão and Spa.
• His career spans CART title and Indy 500 win in 1995, F1 glory in 1997, plus appearances in NASCAR, Australian V8s, and more.
• Signature look: The Supercup car will wear a livery inspired by Villeneuve's iconic striped helmet design, itself based on his mother's jumpers – a design instantly recognizable to motorsport fans worldwide.
• The eight-race Supercup calendar kicks off at Monaco (early June) and ends at Monza (early September), all on F1 race weekends.

What's next:

Villeneuve's guest entry is a short-term engagement, but it signals he remains active in racing. For the Supercup, his involvement adds a story line beyond the championship battle. Fans attending Monaco onwards will see a world champion back in a competitive environment – and that unmistakable livery on track.