The automaker's Formula E Instagram account is gearing up for something big.
Not long ago, Porsche's Formula E Instagram account was rebranded Porsche Motorsport, with all past content removed from the page. In its place, a single video teasing “even more layers” of Porsche's on-track exploits. According to the well-timed screenshots of eagle-eyed Reddit user, one frame of the video appears to represent the late, great Sir Frank Williams.
Fanning the flames of speculation, the video closes with #FINALLY. As you may recall, Porsche trademarked the stylized term F1nally last year, which is an obvious nod to Formula 1.
Moreover, Gulf Oil recently teased “big F1 news coming soon.”
Put all of these factors together, and it appears that Porsche could buy Williams and bring Gulf on as a sponsor. But it may be too soon to celebrate the arrival of the 911 Carrera producer in motorsport's pinnacle series.
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Williams has already responded to the speculation via a spokesperson, who said, “The rumors that Williams Racing is up for sale are inaccurate. We are open to any discussions regarding the supply of engines with manufacturers from 2026 when the new regulations come in. We are happy with our relations with Mercedes and appreciate all their efforts.”
On the one hand, that statement confirms that Williams is not for sale, but on the other, it does not deny that Porsche is interested in the team either.
While it's disappointing to accept that Porsche has still not made any official F1 deal, at least the iconic blue and orange of Gulf Oil may soon return to the grid, possibly on Williams' 2023 racers.
CarBuzz
Big F1 news coming soon ??
What are you most looking forward to in the new season?#GulfOil #TogetherWeAreUnstoppable #F1 #FormulaOne #Racing pic.twitter.com/ellwGyi2ZB
— Gulf Oil International (@GulfOilIntl) January 13, 2023
In November last year, Gulf Oil and McLaren F1 opted not to renew their partnership. But McLaren Automotive, responsible for the roadgoing cars from Woking, renewed its deal with Gulf as its “Official Lubricant and Fuel Partner” for 2023. This means that the famous Gulf livery may not be applied to Williams F1 cars this year, or it means nothing at all. Gulf may even be preparing to support the Andretti Global and Cadillac F1 bid. Time will tell.
Porsche is still interested in entering F1, and the sport's governing body wants more teams on the grid. Whatever the future holds for the premier class of open-wheel racing, it's sure to be exciting.
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Keyword: Porsche Drops Fresh Hints Of A Formula 1 Entry