Photo : D.R. - ALMS

At the start of 2013, the driver/actor Patrick Dempsey, who aims return to the 24 Hours of Le Mans this year, has joined with the Italian footballer Alessandro del Piero. His team will be renamed Dempsey / Del Piero Racing.

Born in 1974, Alessandro del Piero a played Juventus from 1993 to 2012 before going to Sydney (Australia), and won the FIFA World Cup 2006 as captain of the Italian national team. He has also, since childhood, had a passion for motorsports. “Alessandro’s passion for winning and leadership skills will be invaluable, and he will play an important role in the development and direction of the team.” said Patrick Dempsey.

On the 16th of January this new team registered a request for entry with the Automobile Club de l’Ouest for the 90th anniversary edition of the 24 Hours of Le Mans, that will be on the 22nd and 23rd June (ticket information here). The driver line-up will be Patrick Dempsey himself, his long standing partner Joe Foster, and Michael Avenatti.

“We would be honored to have the privilege to race at Le Mans and 2013 promises to be a very exciting year for the team and our partners.” added Joe Foster. 

In addition to the 24 Hours Dempsey/Del Piero Racing plans to race at least two cars in the American Le Mans Series, and further announcements will be made soon.  Patrick Dempsey made his only appearance so far in the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 2009 and took the chequered flag at the wheel of a Ferrari F430 GT.

Jean-Philippe Doret
(Qoutes from Dempsey/Del Piero Racing press release)

Photo : LAKEVILLE (CONNECTICUT, USA), LIME ROCK PARK, 6th & 7th JULY 2012. Patrick Dempsey scores his first podium finish in LM P2 class of the American Le Mans Series, where Dempsey/Del Piero Racing will race in 2013.