No quick return to motorsport? Sebastian Vettel defends himself against rumours circulating about a surprise comeback drive. Sebastian Vettel has only been out of Formula One for nine months, but rumours of a comeback for the four-time world champion continue to circulate.

The world of Formula One was left in a state of reflection and nostalgia when four-time world champion Sebastian Vettel announced his retirement from the pinnacle of motorsport. The decision marked the end of an era for both Vettel and the sport itself, as one of the most successful and iconic drivers of his generation bid farewell to the competitive world of Formula One. 

That said, there has been a story that refused to disappear, circulating mainly in the German media, that Sebastian was to return to competitive motorsport.

 

Young talent comes good

Sebastian Vettel’s journey in Formula 1 has been nothing short of extraordinary. Bursting onto the scene with the Scuderia Toro Rosso team in 2007, Vettel quickly demonstrated his prodigious talent with an unexpected victory in the wet conditions of the Italian Grand Prix at Monza. This remarkable victory foreshadowed the success that was to follow in the years to come.

His crowning achievement came with Red Bull Racing, where Vettel won four consecutive world championships from 2010 to 2013. These dominant years cemented his status as one of the sport’s all-time greats, as he etched his name alongside the likes of Michael Schumacher, Ayrton Senna and Juan Manuel Fangio.

 

 

Synergy with Red Bull Racing

Vettel’s driving style was characterised by exceptional control of the car, remarkable consistency and strategic intelligence. He possessed a unique ability to extract maximum performance from the machinery at his disposal, particularly during his peak years with Red Bull Racing. The chemistry between Vettel and the technical prowess of the team created an almost unstoppable force on the track that propelled him to championship glory. Much like what we are currently witnessing with Max Verstappen.

 

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The likeable F1 driver ‘off track’

Beyond his achievements on the track, Vettel’s vibrant personality and genuine love of the sport endeared him to fans around the world. His sense of humour, humility and sportsmanship made him a beloved figure in the paddock and a role model for aspiring drivers. His ability to connect with fans and engage with the media contributed to his legacy both on and off the track.

 

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Failed to achieve success at Ferrari & Aston Martin

However, Vettel’s later years in F1 saw a shift in dynamics. His move to Ferrari in 2015 was marked by intense competition, as he sought to emulate his Red Bull success with the legendary Italian team. While his time with Ferrari brought moments of brilliance, including memorable victories, that elusive fifth championship remained out of reach.

In a surprise move, Vettel joined Aston Martin (formerly Racing Point) for the 2021 season. The move was greeted with enthusiasm, with fans hoping for a revival of the German driver’s form. While Vettel’s tenure with Aston Martin has been marked by glimpses of his old brilliance, it has also been fraught with challenges, demonstrating the unforgiving nature of modern Formula One competition.

Vettel’s decision to retire from F1 was met with mixed emotions. While fans and colleagues alike celebrated his illustrious career and contributions to the sport, there was also a sense of loss as the grid said goodbye to a true racing legend. 

 

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Rumour: Comeback drive on the cards?

Most recently, just nine months since retiring from F1, Vettel’s enthusiasm for nature and the environment, combined with seemingly misunderstood words from a team principal, has seen him linked with a move to all-electric Formula E. So strongly, in fact, that Vettel was forced to issue a swift denial.

Former Formula 1 World Champion Sebastian Vettel has denied that he is currently in talks about a return to motorsport.

This follows comments made by Thomas Biermaier, Team Principal and CEO of the ABT Cupra racing team in Formula E, in an interview with ‘ran.de’ about the search for a successor to Robin Frijns:

“Maybe it’s also in Switzerland. There are former racers who are committed to the environment and do a lot of work on sustainability. Maybe one of them will be in our car in the future…”

 

 

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Denial by Vettel

Many observers immediately thought of Vettel, who lives in Switzerland and has long been involved in climate protection and related issues. But he made it clear, as quoted by motorsportweek.com:

“I am not in negotiations with ABT Cupra or any other team to compete in Formula E.”

And he continued The whole thing is a misunderstanding. “I want to make it clear that I’m not currently thinking about returning to motorsport,” said Vettel.

Asked by motorsport-total.com whether there had been any approaches to Vettel, Biermaier himself said he had nothing to do with the subject.

 

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“I never put the name in my mouth, it was put in my mouth,” said the Formula E team boss, adding: “There are other drivers in Switzerland who are working with sustainability in Extreme E and so on.”

In the end, “more was interpreted into it than was actually the case,” continued Biermaier, who finished last in the overall standings last season with the ABT Cupra.

The good from the CEO’s point of view: “We received a relatively large number of enquiries, which is impressive. Our position is much better than the final ranking shows”.

READ MORE – Wolff relives 2021: ‘the best man that day didn’t win’

 

 

 

It's time for a summer picnic! 🍔🍦#F1 pic.twitter.com/9sJjKav8kK

— Formula 1 (@F1) August 4, 2023