Dempsey Racing welcomes a new face to their 2013 program with Italy’s soccer World Cup winning legend Alessandro Del Piero joining the Georgia-based race team to form Dempsey/Del Piero Racing.

Del Piero’s soccer (or football to the rest of the world) prowess is internationally renowned.  He is third in the ranking of Italian all-time top scorers (330 goals). He played for Juventus F.C. for 19 years (11 years as captain) and holds the club records for goals (290) and appearances (705).

He was also part of Italy’s 2006 winning World Cup team.

He currently is starring for Sydney FC in the Australian league where at 38-years-old, he remains as one of the true stars of the game.

As part of its 2013 race program, Dempsey/Del Piero Racing have submitted an entry to participate in this year’s 24 Hours of Le Mans. Patrick Dempsey and Joe Foster previously competed at Le Mans in 2009 in a Ferrari.

“We are excited to join forces with Alessandro and compete at the highest levels of racing,” Dempsey said.  “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.”

The Le Mans entry features Dempsey, Foster and Michael Avenatti as drivers on its 2013 24 Hours of Le Mans entry.  Avenatti and Foster are also principals with the new team. Filippo Marchino will serve as a consultant to the team.

“I have had a passion for motorsport since I was a young boy growing up in Italy” Del Piero said  “I am thrilled at the opportunity to team with Patrick.  We expect to compete at a very high level and our central focus will be on winning championships.”

Last season Dempsey Racing fielded a full-season LMPC entry alongside a number of races in the P2 class with a Lola for Dempsey and Foster – the duo standing on the podium at Lime Rock and Road America.

“We are thrilled to have submitted an entry to the 24 Hours of Le Mans and anxiously await news from the ACO Selection Committee,” Foster said.  “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.”