Sebastian Vettel Dismisses Talk of Formula 1 Comeback, Stating He Won’t Reverse His Retirement Decision
Sebastian Vettel has minimized discussions about a potential Formula 1 return, emphasizing that he didn’t retire from the sport just to reverse his decision a year later.
Vettel decided to retire midway through the 2022 season, and he has been persistently questioned about the possibility of a comeback ever since, although he has never categorically ruled it out.
Approximately 11 months after his last race, Vettel has made a few appearances in the paddock, sparking speculations about a return. While there are prevalent rumors of a management role, his former boss, Helmut Marko, believes that Vettel’s racing career in Formula 1 isn’t necessarily over.
However, Vettel has downplayed any return to the F1 grid, stating, “You can never rule out something like that, but at some point, the time will be over. My age isn’t the issue, and it was my decision to draw the line. But I didn’t draw it just to cancel it a year later. I have the privilege of spending more time with my family and my children; that is a priority. Just as I have rediscovered the world in recent years, Formula 1, no matter how big it may be, has always become smaller.”
In addition to Formula 1, Vettel has been linked to discussions with the World Endurance Championship team Jota, which will field two cars in the upcoming season. The team principal, Sam Hignet, has confirmed conversations with Vettel, as well as Jenson Button and Robert Kubica.
Vettel is in no rush to make a decision regarding his potential return to competitive racing.
“I’m excited about that myself,” he said.
“But that was exactly my intention: not to immediately take on the next task or get into the next cockpit and first get to know the side of me that can try anything and has time.
“I haven’t had that in the past. I live in one phase where you can feel and discover yourself a little differently. At the same time, I really enjoy the time with the family.
“That’s why I can’t give this dream answer as to what will be on my line in the future.”
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