F1: Vettel Eyes Potential Formula 1 Return, Reveals Talks with Mercedes Boss Wolff
Sebastian Vettel, a four-time world champion, confidently asserts his age doesn't deter his Formula 1 ambitions, remaining open to a potential return to the sport.
By Divyam Dubey
Four-time F1 champion Sebastian Vettel has been talking about returning to the sport lately. This decision follows his conversations with Toto Wolff, the team principal of Mercedes. Mercedes is trying to find a replacement for Lewis Hamilton, who announced his retirement in February after an 11-year career with the Silver Arrows, choosing Ferrari instead. Vettel achieved his title victories when he was driving for Red Bull Racing from 2010 to 2013. After retiring from Formula 1 at the end of the 2022 season, during which he drove for Ferrari and then Aston Martin, Vettel is now considering a comeback to the racing circuit. This plan has been influenced by discussions with Wolff and other team managers. As Hamilton prepares to join Ferrari, a spot at Mercedes has become highly sought after in the Formula One paddock.
The former champion is contemplating his choices while considering the crucial factor of spending prolonged time away from home if he decides to return to racing. For those who don't know, Vettel's decision to quit the sport stemmed from his desire to spend more time with his kids.
Sebastian Vettel and Porsche 963 Hypercar Test
Despite Sebastian Vettel's rumours of joining Mercedes for a return to F1 is not something new, the four-time German F1 World Champion has tested Porsche's 963 hypercar which indicates that he might compete in the upcoming Le Mans 2024 race. He logged nearly 581km, equivalent to nearly two Grand Prix distances, showing a keen interest in exploring other motorsport disciplines.
Vettel's partnership with Porsche Penske Motorsport began with intensive simulator sessions in Germany, which then advanced to practical testing at the Weissach test circuit. His expedition reached its climax with an exhilarating drive at Aragon, where he successfully completed an astonishing 118 laps.
Vettel took advantage of the chance to test Porsche's cutting-edge hypercar because he's curious about endurance racing. Although Vettel did not have specific intentions for the future, he enthusiastically accepted the opportunity to fully engage himself in endurance races, demonstrating his willingness to embrace new challenges and experiences.
Porsche Penske Motorsport's preparations for the 24 Hours of Le Mans relied on the Aragon test session because it offered excellent endurance testing. In addition to a group of experienced WEC drivers, Vettel was accompanied by the current DTM champion Thomas Preining, which significantly enhanced the level of knowledge and skill present at the testing session.
