Ex-Formula 1 world champion seals unexpected racing return

The former Canadian driver, who competed in Formula 1 from 1996 to 2006 and won the world title with Williams in 1997 following the dramatic Jerez showdown and collision with Michael Schumacher, is set to return to action in one of the most prestigious GT championships, which regularly features as a support category during Formula 1 weekends.

After leaving Formula 1 in 2006, Villeneuve reinvented himself with a career mainly focused on NASCAR in North America, while also making occasional appearances at Le Mans and in Formula E during the 2015-16 season. His most recent racing appearance came in 2023, when he contested three WEC rounds in the Hypercar class with Vanwall Racing. The son of Gilles Villeneuve has also built a reputation as one of Formula 1’s most outspoken pundits, becoming well known for his blunt and often sharp opinions. Even today, he remains part of Sky Sports UK’s on-air team for the 2026 season.

The post announcing the Canadian champion’s return also revealed the livery he will race with in Porsche Supercup. The design pays tribute to his iconic multi-coloured striped helmet, which made him instantly recognisable during his Formula 1 career and to motorsport fans around the world. The opening weekend of the 2026 season will take place in Monaco alongside Formula 1, with the event scheduled for the weekend of June 4-6.

“Indy 500 winner, CART champion and a proven name across top-tier series - from Formula 1 to American open-wheel racing. Even during his time in Formula 1, Villeneuve stood out - not just for his driving, but for his distinctive helmet design. Inspired by his mother’s jumpers, its colourful stripes became one of his trademarks, instantly recognisable to motorsport fans around the world,” the Porsche supercup account shared.