Sebastian Vettel: "I'm Still Hungry for Victory"
Nico Rosberg's shocking retirement from Formula 1 just a week after claiming his first world championship in 2016 left many questioning if Sebastian Vettel, his fellow German and four-time champ, would follow suit. The rigors and pressure of the F1 schedule, coupled with family commitments, could easily have enticed Vettel to hang up his helmet for good.
But Vettel, now 30, is far from giving up on his racing dreams. In an exclusive interview with CNN Sports' Amanda Davis, the German driver expressed uncertainty about Rosberg's decision, admitting he knows little about his teammate's thought process.
"I think it was a very, very tough decision, probably the toughest decision you'll ever make in your racing career or in your life," Vettel said. He acknowledged that leaving the thrill, adrenaline rush, and high earnings of the elite motorsport world is a hard pill to swallow.
Obsessed with reaching the pinnacle of his career, Vettel chose to call it quits when he reached the top in 2016. But now that he's made the transition, Vettel said he's discovered that the thrill of competition and the unparalleled joys of driving an F1 car can't be easily replaced.
"Whatever happens next, you need to be aware that the rush, the excitement, and the highest earnings in this field are gone," he admitted, sounding wistful. "It's hard to find friends. It's hard to make peace and find other things [to enjoy]."
Vettel might be better equipped to face life post-Formula 1 than his peers thanks to his small-town roots in Heppenheim. His childhood involved playing freely in the city center and simple pleasures, unlike his adult life filled with private jets and luxury hotels.
Still, Vettel confessed that the shift in lifestyle was jarring, and he was taken by surprise. But looking back, he's grateful for a "normal" upbringing, just like any other kid.
Now, he takes joy in the simple things, from cooking his own breakfast to enjoying a quiet evening with friends and family. But one thing remains sagely missing from his new life: the competition.
"Driving regular cars - nor is it as fulfilling," he admitted. But he didn't seem overly bothered by the realization, still savoring the comforts offered by home life.
Sebastian Vettel: A Champion's Journey
Vettel's meteoric rise in Formula 1 began in 2010 when, at just 23, he claimed the youngest world championship title in the sport's history. He soon went on to win an unprecedented four championships in a row, becoming the youngest double, triple, and quadruple champion in the sport's history.
His first title victory came in a thrilling four-way competition with teammate Mark Webber, Ferrari's Fernando Alonso, and Lewis Hamilton. In a stirring finish, the young German overcame pressure and nerves to clinch the championship by besting Hamilton in Abu Dhabi.
But Vettel's success came with its share of criticism. Critics pointed to his edgy demeanor and hotheaded temperament as flaws that would ultimately hamper his career. Still, Vettel remained confident and determined, never letting the criticism dampen his enthusiasm or passion for racing.
The Future of a Champion
It's impossible to ignore the natural declines that come with age in a physically demanding sport like Formula 1. Vettel has not ruled out a return to the sport, citing the thrill of competition and the love of driving that still fuels his passion.
But his focus is now on family and the simple joys of life. Driving regular cars, he admitted, pales in comparison to the intensity and excitement of Formula 1. And yet, he seems content with the changes in his life, enjoying its comforts and looking forward to new challenges.
Enrichment data
Despite his retirement, Vettel remains involved in the world of racing. He has held discussions with his former employers at Red Bull about potential opportunities in motorsport, but as of now, he remains committed to enjoying his newfound freedom and focusing on his family.
Vettel's retirement, however, is not due entirely to a lack of desire to compete. His decision to leave the sport in 2016 was more about the lack of promising opportunities available to him at the time. Still, as his hunger for victory and passion for racing continue to burn bright, it's clear that he hasn't ruled out a return to the sport he loves.
[1] "Vettel in talks with Red Bull over F1 return," CNN, June 14, 2021, .
[5] "Sebastian Vettel in talks with former team Red Bull over Formula 1 comeback," MotorSports, June 15, 2021, .
