Vettel talks about his retirement

After so many years of racing, Sebastian Vettel had to adjust to a slightly different rhythm of life. He misses the competition and the tension, but he enjoys it.

14 May 2023

From: dpa

Sebastian Vettel has had to get used to life as a Formula 1 pensioner. “After such a long time in racing, this is the first time I have something like a daily routine,” said the four-time world champion in an interview with Bild am Sonntag. Vettel said goodbye to the premier motorsport class after last season - the Heppenheim native competed in his first Grand Prix in 2007.

Now he is enjoying time with his children, said the father of three. Vettel doesn't yet know when he will appear in the paddock again. There is also persistent speculation that the now 35-year-old could at some point work in a senior position for the Red Bull racing team. The Hessian had his most successful time in Formula 1 with the team, winning world titles from 2010 up to and including 2013. Afterwards, there was no comparable success at his positions at Ferrari and finally Aston Martin. In total, Vettel won 53 Grand Prix.

Vettel most recently drove for Aston Martin. © APA/getty / Minas Panagiotakis

In mid-July he will get into older Formula 1 models for show purposes. Vettel will be one of the top stars at the Goodwood Festival of Speed. When asked whether this helped against Formula 1 withdrawal, Vettel replied in the interview: “Not really. Goodwood is not a real race track. Still, it’s nice to sit behind the wheel for a moment.” So far, he’s doing very well with his decision. “But what I miss most is the competition and the tension.”

Schlagwörter: Formula 1 Sebastian Vettel