Former Ferrari Driver Rubens Barrichello to Race in a New Australian Racing Series

Former Ferrari driver Rubens Barrichello has long since retired from Formula One. However, he is still racing in other series and recently signed up with the new S5000 series in Australia.

The 11-time Grand Prix winner had previously raced in Brazilian stock cars since leaving F1 at the end of 2011. However, the 47-year old Brazilian veteran is confident that he is ready to make a return to single seater racing.

The Australian S5000 series will feature cars with V8 engines and is set to get underway in September this year.

Speaking to the S5000 website, a delighted Rubens Barrichello said: “Having been to Australia many times during my F1 career, I’m excited to be coming back for the first ever race for S5000 in Melbourne.”

“The concept of the S5000 formula is a very interesting one, the car looks to be a real challenge, and I look forward to playing my part in its launch.”

“It’s great to see what will be a resurgence in serious open-wheeler racing in Australia. I hear the sight and sound of a five-litre V8 in the back of the S5000 is pretty awesome.”

“I’ve never been to the Sandown circuit before, so there will be much to absorb, but it looks like a great venue for the S5000s to make their debut. It’s going to be a great experience.”

During his Stock Car Brazil stint, Barrichello won the championship in 2014 for the Full Time Sports team. The Brazilian has also dabbled in SportsCar racing and the World Endurance Championship briefly. In addition to that, in 2012, he competed in the IndyCar series, finishing 12th with two points finishes. His best ever position was a 4th place in Sonoma.

The S5000 series was created by a merger between two previous series, Formula Thunder 5000 and Super5000. The series is also promoted by the Australian Racing Group