At the end of the 2022 F1 season, Sebastian Vettel had decided to retire from Formula One.
The 4-time World Champion has been out of the spotlight since his retirement, enjoying his private life away from the frenzy of the paddock, but recently has granted an interview with the German newspaper Bild sharing his thoughts on the new direction his life took after spending so much time on track and around the world and his future projects.
“After such a long time in racing, I have something like an everyday life for the first time. It took me some time to get used to it. Above all, I enjoy the time with my children,” said Vettel.
“It was strange at first not to be there, but I can handle it well and follow the sport with great interest.”
After parting ways with Ferrari, Vettel joined Aston Martin for the last two years of his career. The team is currently running second in the Constructors’ Championsip, already collecting 4 podiums in the first 5 races with Fernando Alonso.
A really different situation from the one Vettel was used to during his stay with the team, battling in the midfield with a challenging car. Despite that, the German is happy for them:
“I am very happy for my former team. You have also worked hard in recent years. It’s nice that they’re clinching a few trophies now.”
Thus far a comeback to Formula 1 does not seem to be an alternative, despite several rumors about a return as a driver or manager. Vettel in fact declares of “doing very well with my decision”, despite missing the competition and the tension.
Yet soon we will see him again on the track in occasion of the Goodwood Festival of Speed, during which Vettel will behind the wheel of the 1992 Williams FW14B powered by e-fuel.
The German driver, who has been in first line for several battles in recent years, is putting the spotlight on safeguarding and respecting the environment, believing it can coexist also in motorsport.
“I let myself be inspired, look at a lot, collect ideas. Let’s see what ends up being a project.” commented – Driving my old racing cars with e-fuels at Goodwood is one thing. Motorsport is my passion.”
“It’s important to me to show that we can drive just as well and quickly with synthetic, i.e. CO2-neutral, fuel. And that already today synthetic fuels offer a solution to responsibly having fun. A lot of people just don’t know that yet.”
Photo credit: Instagram.com/SebastianVettel
