F1 legend Sebastian Vettel rules out ever returning to grid as a driver

Sebastian Vettel and Max Verstappen shake hands — Photo: © IMAGO

Formula 1

F1 legend rules out ever returning to grid as a driver

The four-time world champion left sport at the end of the 2022 season

Kevin McKenna

Wednesday 13 August 2025 22:00

F1 legend Sebastian Vettel has closed the door on a return to the sport as a driver, but admitted he could come back in another role.

The 38-year-old is a four-time world champion, having started the 2010s with four titles in a row for Red Bull before moving on for a frustrating time with Ferrari.

He announced his retirement from F1 in 2022 following a two-year spell at Aston Martin, ending a career in which he celebrated 53 race victories.

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Vettel has remained heavily involved in the world of motorsport, and has been linked with a return to the track on several occasions, most recently with Audi.

But he has now confirmed that while his racing days are over, he would be more than happy to explore another role in F1 should the opportunity arise.

When asked in an interview with ZDF if he would be keen on returning to the sport, he said: "So, not as a driver.

"But in another role - depending on exactly what that role involves - perhaps taking on one or another function in Formula 1 in the future is absolutely conceivable.''

What does the future hold for Red Bull great?

It's not the first time the 38-year-old's name has popped up in recent months, with Red Bull supremo Helmut Marko backing him to one day replace him when he eventually steps down.

Vettel's desire to promote sustainability within motorsport, as well as his passion for getting young women involved in racing, has also seen him touted as a potential option for a role at the FIA.

He has previously admitted that with three children at home, his family must always come first, but his latest comments suggest he would be at least be willing to discuss the possibility of coming back to the fold.

A career in world endurance racing could also be on the cards, with Vettel already stating that the relatively short calendar makes it an appealing option.

NASCAR Red Bull Ferrari Aston Martin Sebastian Vettel Audi