Four-time Formula 1 world champion Sebastian Vettel is among the first drivers confirmed for next year’s highly anticipated Race of Champions event. This year marks the Race of Champions’ debut in New Zealand, taking place on a specially designed tarmac circuit inside Hnry Stadium in Wellington.
So far, four participants have been announced, including Vettel, who previously raced for Red Bull, Ferrari, and Aston Martin. Vettel, who secured four consecutive world championships with Red Bull from 2010 to 2013, has competed in every Race of Champions event except two since 2007.
The German driver has claimed the individual title once in 2015 and has won the Nations’ Cup seven times, notably securing six consecutive victories alongside Michael Schumacher. Reflecting on the upcoming event, Vettel shared, “Before ROC Sydney, I made a brief trip to New Zealand and was amazed by its beauty, so I jokingly asked the organizers, ‘Can you please bring the next ROC to New Zealand?’ I’m excited to compete against champions from around the world in Wellington this January and explore more of New Zealand.”
Current Formula 1 racer Valtteri Bottas will also participate in the Race of Champions for the third time. The Cadillac driver expressed his enthusiasm, saying, “Race of Champions is such a unique and thrilling event, and I’m very happy it’s returning. I look forward to racing drivers from various categories on the same track in different cars, making it very entertaining for the fans. It’s a great way to stay sharp during the off-season, and there’s no better place for that than at ROC, so I’m really excited for January!”
Other confirmed competitors include 2025 Supercars champion Chaz Mostert and World Rally Championship winner Hayden Paddon.
Fan Take: This announcement fuels excitement for racing enthusiasts by bringing top-tier drivers from diverse motorsport disciplines together on one track, showcasing their versatility. Hosting the Race of Champions in New Zealand could broaden the sport’s global appeal and inspire fresh fan engagement in a new region.
Source: www.crash.net
