A year ago
The Formula E Instagram account of the automaker is getting ready for a big event.
All previous content was removed from Porsche's Formula E Instagram account, which was recently renamed Porsche Motorsport. A single video that teases "even more layers" of Porsche's performance on the track took its place. One frame of the video appears to represent the late great Sir Frank Williams, as evidenced by the precisely timed screenshots taken by an attentive Reddit user.
The video ends with the hashtag "FINALLY" to put an end to speculation. You may recall that Porsche filed a trademark application last year for the stylized term "F1nally," which is a clear allusion to Formula 1.
In addition, Gulf Oil recently hinted that "big F1 news is coming soon."
When all of these factors are taken into consideration, it would appear that Porsche could acquire Williams and recruit Gulf as a sponsor. However, celebrating the 911 Carrera manufacturer's entry into motorsport's top series may be premature. A spokesperson for Williams has already responded to the rumors, stating, "The rumors that Williams Racing is up for sale are inaccurate." When the new regulations go into effect in 2026, we are open to any discussions with engine manufacturers regarding the supply of engines. We are pleased with Mercedes's relationships and appreciate all of their efforts."
That statement indicates, on the one hand, that Williams is not for sale and, on the other, that Porsche is also interested in the team.
Although it is disappointing to accept that Porsche has not yet signed a formal F1 contract, the recognizable Gulf Oil blue and orange may soon return to the grid, perhaps on Williams' 2023 racers. Gulf Oil and McLaren F1 decided not to renew their partnership in November of last year. However, McLaren Automotive, the Woking-based manufacturer of roadgoing automobiles, has extended its agreement with Gulf as its "Official Lubricant and Fuel Partner" until 2023. This could mean that Williams F1 vehicles will not sport the renowned Gulf livery this year, or it could mean nothing at all. It's even possible that Gulf is getting ready to back the Andretti Global and Cadillac F1 bids. The future will tell.
The governing body of Formula One wants more teams on the grid, and Porsche is still interested in entering the sport. The most prestigious category of open-wheel racing is set for an exciting future.
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