Four-time World Champion Sebastian Vettel.
Sebastian Vettel admitted at Imola that being there had him longing to be on the Formula 1 grid in a “competitive car”, but reeled in the comeback hopes.
At the conclusion of the 2022 season, Vettel bid farewell to Formula 1 after securing the title of World Champion for the fourth time. However, he made a remarkable return to the track at Imola in honor of the 30th anniversary of Ayrton Senna and Roland Ratzenberger’s tragic deaths at the same circuit. Vettel took control of the iconic McLaren MP4/8, the very car that Senna piloted to his 41st and ultimate victory.
Sebastian Vettel opens up on F1 grid ‘wish’ but at peace with retirement
Additional reporting by Thomas Maher
Aston Martin, Vettel’s final Formula 1 team, were finishing P7 in the Constructors’ Championship at the point where Vettel decided to bid F1 farewell, but speaking to Channel 4 on race day at the 2024 Emilia Romagna Grand Prix, Vettel briefly added fuel to the fire of comeback speculation after claiming being back in this environment had him wishing he was on that grid in a strong car.
When asked about his current state, Vettel responded, “I’m doing well. I’m really enjoying my time, especially with the children.”
On days like this, when the sun is shining and there is a lively crowd, it is quite evident that I yearn for Formula 1. I long to be in a fast car, competing on the track and being a part of the action.
Vettel was questioned about the possibility of a comeback, but he quickly dismissed that idea.
He expressed, “It appears different, as I believe I possess a unique approach to handling tasks.”
When asked if he misses F1 and would want another opportunity, Vettel acknowledged that there are aspects he misses, but there are also certain things that do not align well together.
The decision was incredibly difficult and continues to cause pain. However, with a year and a half of distance, I believe things have improved. I have found peace with the decision and am now embracing my new life.
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When speaking to media, including PlanetF1.com’s Thomas Maher, Vettel expressed his willingness to embrace “new challenges” in life, further emphasizing his mindset.
Vettel expressed, “Being on track and receiving encouragement today has been truly amazing. However, I must admit that a small part of the success is attributed to my own efforts, but the main credit goes to Ayrton and Roland.”
“I consider myself extremely fortunate to have had the career and life that I did, along with the support I received. However, I don’t wake up yearning for those moments on the podium when people cheer my name. I have a realistic outlook on life and am eager to embrace new challenges.”
Vettel’s confirmation that he has considered an F1 comeback does not imply that he never thought about it. However, throughout his retirement decision-making process, Vettel has consistently found that the reasons for stepping away outweigh any desire to return. He specifically highlighted the demanding and hectic schedule of modern Formula 1 as a significant factor.
The F1 2024 campaign is slated to consist of an unprecedented 24 rounds.
He stated that there are many things he misses, as well as things he doesn’t miss, so it’s always a trade-off.
“Formula 1 has become incredibly intense in recent times. When you consider the jam-packed schedule and the sheer number of races, it’s not just the drivers who feel the pressure. Mechanics, engineers, and even those in the media working in the Formula 1 paddock are also affected by this intensity.”
Making the decision was difficult for me, as I anticipated. I had contemplated returning, but ultimately, my choice remains unchanged. I am still content with my decision.
Aston Martin, the previous team of Vettel, had a rather disastrous weekend at Imola. Their greatly enhanced AMR24 failed to meet expectations, resulting in a disappointing performance and only two points earned thanks to Lance Stroll.
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