Historically, Apple and motorsport haven’t had much of a connection, aside from one colorful Porsche 935 from 1980. More recently, however, the company has shown a growing interest in on-track events, creating last year’s F1 film and acquiring the U.S. rights to the sport. Yet, the manufacturer of Macs and iPhones is preparing for an unexpected comeback on an actual race car—this time, another Porsche.
Apple Music will be backing a duo of Penske Porsche 963s at IMSA’s Long Beach Grand Prix this weekend, commemorating 46 years since that legendary 935 raced in events like Sebring and Le Mans. The streaming service’s logo is prominently displayed on the Hypercar’s sleek sides, with subtle retro warm-hued stripes breaking up the predominantly white exterior that ties into the headlights. The outcome is visually appealing, albeit somewhat conservative, but it does mirror Apple’s previous branded race car.
According to legend, the original sponsorship arrangement arose because Apple co-founder Steve Jobs was a fan of Porsche, and in the late ’70s, he brought his 356 to Bob Garretson’s repair shop in Mountain View, California—a short distance from Cupertino, the city where Apple is famously based. Garretson also competed for Dick Barbour’s racing team.
As events unfolded, Apple Computer ended up on one of Barbour’s cars during the 1980 season. Garretson was the driver, alongside legends Bobby Rahal and Alan Moffat. The Apple 935 didn’t achieve much success; it withdrew midway through Le Mans, and the best result the trio could manage was a third place at Road America. Barbour’s prior races in ’78, ’79, and later in ’81 yielded better results. Nevertheless, the car turned heads, which was the objective.
Regarding this Apple vehicle, the No. 7 Penske 963 driven by Julien Andlauer and Felipe Nasr secured victories at the 24 Hours of Daytona and 12 Hours of Sebring to kickstart the current season, indicating a robust possibility that the team could continue the legacy they share with a win. The IMSA race is slated to begin at 1 p.m. Eastern on Saturday, April 18, with IndyCar racing on Sunday at 2:45 p.m.
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**Porsche Set to Race with Apple-Themed Livery at Long Beach This Weekend**
This upcoming weekend, the renowned Long Beach Grand Prix will feature a distinctive twist as Porsche presents a unique livery inspired by the design ethos of Apple Inc. This fusion of automotive prowess and technology-driven design is anticipated to capture the interest of both fans and industry professionals.
Opting for an Apple-themed livery aligns with Porsche’s ongoing initiative to integrate contemporary technology with its storied racing legacy. The sleek, understated design boasts a color scheme reminiscent of Apple’s signature hues, including white, silver, and black, along with the classic Apple logo subtly incorporated into the vehicle’s graphics. This design not only acknowledges Apple’s significant impact on design and technology but also seeks to engage a younger audience of racing enthusiasts who are increasingly attracted to tech-oriented brands.
Porsche’s participation in the Long Beach Grand Prix carries particular importance as the event is celebrated for its lively atmosphere and high-stakes competition. This race, which is part of the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship, attracts thousands of fans and is a prominent fixture on the motorsport timetable. By adopting this innovative livery, Porsche aims to distinguish itself on the track and connect with a wider audience.
The vehicle will be piloted by one of Porsche’s premier drivers, renowned for their talent and experience in the series. The team has been rigorously preparing for this race, concentrating on maximizing the car’s performance while ensuring that the striking new design does not hinder aerodynamics or speed.
Beyond its aesthetic allure, Porsche’s partnership with tech-influenced design embodies a burgeoning trend in motorsport, where brands increasingly seek to align with technology firms. This collaboration could set the stage for future partnerships, paving the way for advancements in vehicle technology and design.
As the Long Beach Grand Prix nears, anticipation is soaring around Porsche’s entry. Fans are keen to observe how the Apple-themed livery performs on the track and whether it can assist the team in achieving a podium finish. The race is poised to be an exhilarating occasion, not only showcasing the pinnacle of motorsport but also highlighting the convergence of automotive design and technology.
In summary, Porsche’s choice to race with an Apple-themed livery at the Long Beach Grand Prix is a bold initiative that underscores the brand’s dedication to innovation and its aspiration to resonate with a fresh generation of fans. As the race unfolds, all eyes will be fixated on the track to see how this distinctive design translates into success.