F1 fans have received Vettel’s final verdict on the Red Bull rumours. The door to an F1 comeback has been closed by the four time World Champion.
“Formula 1 is a closed chapter.” Vettel has stated to Auto, Motor und Sport. He further remarked that, "Eventually, it’s the right moment to step aside and let others take the spotlight.”
For some time there had been quiet speculation among the followers that Sebastian Vettel might make a comeback to the Red Bull organisation - he could be leaning towards an advisory role. Helmut Marko’s advancing age, ongoing challenges surrounding Christian Horner and Red Bull's increasing leadership needs substantiated the rumours of Vettel’s participation within the team. However, Sebastian Vettel has shut down these rumours and affirmed his pursuits outside the world of F1.
Followers of Vettel’s tenure were disheartened as it appeared that the World Champion could be stepping away from motorsport entirely. Yet, he has revealed a possible interest in endurance racing - a form of competitive commitment he was initially little enthusiastic about.
Vettel said, “The WEC would actually be a good fit with its eight races, which are also scheduled differently than Formula 1.” The World Endurance Championship (WEC) focuses more on consistency, strategy, fuel efficiency and sustained performance over long distances.
Sebastian Vettel joined Red Bull in 2009 and finished his first season as the youngest runner-up in the World Drivers’ Championship. He successfully maintained his title in 2011 as he became the world’s youngest double world champion. Vettel went on to claim the 2012 and 2013 championships as well and hence set records as the youngest triple and quadruple world champion in F1 history.
At this stage, Vettel has simply expressed an interest in a completely different league from F1 racing. That said, Sebastian Vettel won’t be the first driver considering endurance racing.
