Vettel discusses return to Formula 1 racing
Sebastian Vettel, the four-time Formula 1 world champion, hung up his racing boots at the end of 2022. However, the German racer is not completely leaving the motorsport kingdom behind. Instead, he is considering staying connected in a professional capacity, leveraging his extensive experience without returning to full-time racing.
Vettel has explicitly stated that the era of competing as a driver is over. Yet, he has left the door open for one or two non-driving capacities within Formula 1. These potential roles could involve pit wall strategy, mentoring, or other behind-the-scenes positions.
No concrete commitments have been announced yet, but Vettel continues to comment on and engage with F1 developments, showing his ongoing interest in the sport's evolution.
Away from the racetrack, Vettel is also making strides in the agricultural sector, operating a tractor at home and advocating for environmental and sustainability projects. He is also spending more time with his wife Hanna and their three children, who are making a lot of fun at home.
Interestingly, Helmut Marko, Red Bull's motorsport advisor, has suggested Vettel as a potential successor in some capacity. However, the role Marko envisions for Vettel is not specified beyond a driver.
In a less concrete development, discussions about a deployment in the endurance world championship for Vettel have been floated, but they are not yet concrete. Vettel has driven an endurance car once, but no further plans have been made.
Vettel is also co-owner of the Germany SailGP sailing team, demonstrating his continued passion for motorsport beyond Formula 1.
Despite his retirement and new ventures, Vettel has not ruled out a potential return to motorsport. He has expressed that he still has some time for a potential comeback, but his future role in Formula 1, beyond imagining a role, is not specified.
Sebastian Vettel may seek opportunities in sports other than racing, as he has expressed an interest in pit wall strategy, mentoring, or other behind-the-scenes roles within Formula 1. However, there are discussions about a deployment in the endurance world championship for Vettel, but they are not yet concrete.
