Racing Point: "We don't have space" for Vettel

Racing Point team principal Otmar Szafnauer has appeared to rule his team out of the running to sign Sebastian Vettel for 2021 by stating "we don't have space".

On Thursday, aside from asserting he would be happy to return to Red Bull, Vettel was also hugely complimentary towards Racing Point, that from next season will be renamed Aston Martin.

The problem for four-time F1 champion Vettel is that Racing Point has Sergio Perez contracted until 2022, and the Mexican also brings with him considerable sponsorship, while Lance Stroll is firmly supported by father and team owner Lawrence.

When questioned on the prospect of signing Ferrari driver Vettel, Szafnauer remarked: "It's flattering that everyone thinks a four-time world champion should come to our team, but maybe that's because the car is a bit quicker now.

"We have long contracts with both of our drivers, so it would only be logical that we don't have space."

The comments follow on from " href="https://www.gpfans.com/en/f1-news/54165/red-bull-definitively-rule-vettel-out-of-running-for-2021-drive/">Red Bull team principal Christian Horner declaring "a definite no" to the possibility of signing Vettel, even though he concedes it was discussed.

With Renault this week signing Fernando Alonso from next year, it means there is now only one team potentially available for Vettel - Mercedes.

It appears certain, though, Mercedes will re-sign Lewis Hamilton and Valtteri Bottas given the recent comments from CEO Ola Kallenius.

At this stage, it is now looking likely Vettel is heading for F1's exit door at the end of the year, either on sabbatical or into retirement.

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