Sebastian Vettel is confirmed for the next edition of the Race of Champions, which takes place next year in New Zealand. The four-time Formula 1 world champion is already a familiar name in the competition.
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For the first time, the event will take place in the country, held inside the Hnry Stadium, in Wellington, on an asphalt track built specifically for the event.
Since 2007, the former F1 German driver has participated in all but two RoC events. Besides winning individually in 2015, he also took seven titles in the Nations Cup, six of them consecutively with Michael Schumacher.
“Before the ROC in Sydney, I made a quick first visit to New Zealand and was impressed by the beauty of the country; so, I joked with the organizers: ‘Could you bring the next ROC to New Zealand?’” he said.
“I am very excited to compete against so many other champions from around the world at the Race Of Champions in Wellington in January, and to have the chance to get to know more of New Zealand,” he continued.
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Another name involved with Formula 1 and also confirmed for the Race of Champions is Valtteri Bottas. This will be his third participation in the event. “The Race Of Champions is a very special and exciting event, and I am very happy it is back,” said the driver.
“I can’t wait to compete in Wellington, New Zealand, with all the other drivers from different categories, racing on the same track and in different types of cars — which makes the ROC a very attractive event for the public. The ROC in New Zealand will be another exciting race, with a fantastic atmosphere for us drivers as well as for the fans.”
“Also, personally, I think it’s very good to drive something during the pre-season, and there is no better place for that than the ROC; so, I am very much looking forward to January,” he added.
Also, Supercars champion Chaz Mostert and rally winner Hayden Paddon are other confirmed names so far.
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