Former F1 champion Jacques Villeneuve announces surprise racing comeback in Porsche Supercup

1997 Formula 1 world champion Jacques Villeneuve is set to return to racing at age 55, joining the Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup for the 2026 season. The Canadian, who won his title with Williams after a dramatic showdown with Michael Schumacher at Jerez, has been largely absent from competitive racing since a handful of WEC appearances in 2023. His comeback will see him compete in one of GT racing's most prestigious championships, which regularly supports Formula 1 race weekends.

Why it matters:

Villeneuve's return adds a layer of star power to the Porsche Supercup series and gives fans a chance to see a former F1 champion in action. After years as a blunt and outspoken pundit on Sky Sports UK, he now steps back behind the wheel — a reminder that his driving career, while defined by his short but brilliant F1 peak, spanned multiple disciplines.

The details:

• Villeneuve will race for the full 2026 Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup season, with the opening round taking place alongside the Monaco Grand Prix (June 4-6).
• His car will feature a special livery inspired by his iconic multi-colored striped helmet, a design originally inspired by his mother’s jumpers.
• The announcement came via the official Porsche Supercup social media channels, which highlighted his pedigree: Indy 500 winner, CART champion, and a name that transcends series.
• Villeneuve's most recent competitive racing was in 2023, contesting three WEC Hypercar rounds with Vanwall Racing. Before that, he made occasional appearances in Formula E and NASCAR after leaving F1 in 2006.

What's next:

The 2026 Porsche Supercup season kicks off in Monaco, where Villeneuve will immediately face a demanding street circuit. The series calendar typically follows European Formula 1 rounds, giving him a familiar environment. Whether he can challenge for wins remains uncertain at 55, but his presence guarantees attention and adds a compelling story to the season.