Emerson Fittipaldi Preparing for Possible Racing Return

Photo: DPPI/FIA WEC

Emerson Fittipaldi has not denied reports that he could return to the wheel of a race car in the not-too-distant future.

Speaking to Sportscar365 in an exclusive interview on Tuesday, the Brazilian racing legend said a possibility exists for him to compete in a one-off race, although not providing any further details.

“I cannot announce now but there’s a chance I’m looking forward to doing something,” Fittipaldi told Sportscar365. “It would be a special occasion and a special situation. The plans are not official yet.”

Should the deal be finalized, Fittipaldi said an announcement could come around the Brazilian Grand Prix weekend on Nov. 7-9.

As revealed last month, Fittipaldi was recently added to the FIA drivers’ ratings list, with the two-time Formula One World Champion and Indianapolis 500 winner being graded as a Bronze.

It had since fueled rumors of a possible racing return for the 67-year-old, who retired from professional competition in 1996. Fittipaldi, however, has made select starts since, with his most recent having been in a Brazilian GT race with his brother, Wilson, in 2008.

Speculation has pointed towards “Emmo” being part of an all-Brazilian driver lineup for next month’s FIA World Endurance Championship season finale at Sao Paulo, an event that Fittipaldi also serves as promoter.

While not confirming any of those reports, Fittipaldi is upbeat on the race, which he projects to see a significant increase in attendance, despite having moved from its traditional early September date to late November due to the World Cup and track resurfacing.

“In Brazil, with the end of the World Cup and now the Olympic games, it’s very difficult, even for the Brazilian Grand Prix,” he said. “But I’m pleased with the date and I’m pleased with the promotion.

“We’re going to have at least double the fans we had last year. The new Porsche, new drivers and new cars coming to WEC… I think it’s going to be a great show, there’s no doubt about it.”

The 2013 race saw a three-day weekend attendance of 38,000 spectators.

John Dagys

John Dagys is the founder and Editor-in-Chief of Sportscar365. Dagys spent eight years as a motorsports correspondent for FOXSports.com and SPEED Channel and has contributed to numerous other motorsports publications worldwide. Contact John