Vettel, though, is determined to leave Ferrari with his head held high and is willing to see out the year.
Asked if an early exit from Ferrari was possible, speaking to F1TV, Vettel replied: “No, I don't think so.
"So I'm not running away from it. I think I have something to prove, mostly to myself. And that's what I'm here for.
“Obviously, a lot of guys in the team have given so much to me in the last couple of years, and just out of respect I want to give that support back and bring it to a worthy end, so I'm not at all even considering running away.”
Vettel recognises that with his future decided early this season, that has created an added difficulty, in addition to dealing with a car that is off the pace.
"The fact that I am in a team that I will not stay for longer, I think that's a challenging situation for both the team and myself, but I think we just try to make the best out of it," said Vettel.
"Obviously, my future at this stage is open. I need to decide what I would like. I am competitive, so if the right package comes up then I'm willing to give so much more.
"If not, then it's obviously a big one to think about doing something completely different."
At this stage, though, Vettel is still uncertain as to what the future holds, adding: "I don't know. This is the honest answer.
"I haven't signed anything, I have no contract for next year or beyond, so anything could be an option - remaining in Formula 1, taking a break or quitting."