Ten more races and then it’s over: Sebastian Vettel ends his extremely successful career in Formula 1 at the end of the season. Not only his numerous fans will miss the four-time world champion. Long-time companions also have big words for the Heppenheimer.
“I love this sport,” said Vettel in his statement, which he shared in a video on Instagram: “He has been the center of my life since I can remember, but as much as there is life on the track, there is so much it’s also my life off the track. Being a racer was never my only identity.” One thing is certain: Formula 1 will miss Vettel, Vettel will miss Formula 1.
Heiko Wasser (RTL commentator): “I followed Sebastian Vettel, from his first Friday drive, to his first race in Indianapolis, to his world titles and the tragic time at Ferrari, where really very little was related to the world championship in red was missing. He was always fun for me and will be missed by me and all Formula 1 fans.”
Kai Ebel (RTL reporter): “Sebastian Vettel resigned not entirely unexpectedly, but the manner in which he resigned is unexpected. He does not choose an official press date for the team, but chooses Instagram and thus his entry into the social media World. Completely without branding, completely without direct reference to Formula 1. This shows that Vettel will continue to take a different path in the future. In my view, the resignation is more of a political nature and not sporting. It is also an indication of where Vettel is will be more involved in the future.”
Christian Danner (Formula 1 expert): “I’m always happy to be able to accompany such exposed and successful drivers from the very first to the very last race. The best thing is that he can probably retire healthy. Obviously he has already developed many new interests and I am sure that he will continue to pursue them so intensively.”
Mike Krack (Aston Martin Team Principal): “Sebastian is a great driver – fast, intelligent, strategic – and of course we will miss his qualities. We all learned from him and the knowledge we gained from working with him , will continue to help our team long after he’s gone.”
Lawrence Stroll (Aston Martin Chairman): “I want to thank Sebastian from the bottom of my heart for the great work he has done for Aston Martin over the past year and a half. We made it clear to him that we would love to work with him next year would have continued, but in the end he did what felt right for him and his family and of course we respect that.”
Nico Rosberg (Former F1 World Champion): “Congratulations Seb on an incredible career! One of the rivals I respected most – an absolute legend of the sport. 4 titles is a massive achievement and well deserved. All the best for the future! “
Mick Schumacher (Haas pilot): “I am so sad that you are leaving us, but at the same time excited for the new chapter in your life. You were and are such an important person for me and I am grateful for our friendship. Thank you for everything you’ve brought to the sport we both love. I can’t wait to race our last few days together. Thank you Seb, you’re an inspiration.”
Lewis Hamilton (Seven-time F1 World Champion): “Seb, it has been an honor to call you a competitor and an even greater honor to call you my friend. Leaving this sport better than you found it is always the goal. I have no doubt that whatever comes next for you will be exciting, meaningful and rewarding. I love you.”