A decade and a half of Formula 1 is enough for him: four-time world champion Sebastian Vettel has announced his retirement via social media. After this season, he wants to spend more time with his three children and watch them grow up, the 35-year-old German explained.
Vettel has been driving for the Aston Martin racing team for two years. He had his wedding at the third of five employers in the premier class of motorsport, Red Bull. Vettel won all his world championship titles for the team between 2010 and 2013. One year later, things continued less successfully at Ferrari. Vettel also celebrated his last Grand Prix success with the Scuderia in 2019.
But his record remains impressive. With 53 wins, Vettel ranks third in the all-time best list behind Lewis Hamilton (103) and Michael Schumacher (91).
Thank you for everything you’ve contributed to the sport we both love, I can’t wait for our last races together. Thank you, Seb – you’re an inspiration pic.twitter.com/oGEN4YLwHX
– Mick Schumacher (@SchumacherMick) July 28, 2022
I’m so sad that you’re leaving, but at the same time excited for you and this new chapter of your life. You’ve been and still are such an important person to me and I’m thankful for our friendship. pic.twitter.com/1iFmlxxgyQ
– Mick Schumacher (@SchumacherMick) July 28, 2022
Michael Schumacher’s son Mick is currently the only German besides Vettel in the Formula 1 business. He regretted the decision of his compatriot, whom he described as a friend and “inspiration”.
Seb, it’s been an honour to call you a competitor and an ever greater honour 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. Love you, man. pic.twitter.com/eHVmOpov2m
– Lewis Hamilton (@LewisHamilton) July 28, 2022
Lewis Hamilton wrote on Twitter that it was a great honour to call Vettel a friend: “I love you man. “
We will miss you, Seb F1 ThankYouSeb pic.twitter.com/eEJ8zE6aih
– Formula 1 (@F1) July 28, 2022
Formula 1 announced that Sebastian Vettel would be missed. Only Michael Schumacher and Vettel have won four world championships in a row since Juan Manuel Fangio.