Sebastian Vettel is regarded as one of the most talented drivers in Formula 1 history. The German driver secured four consecutive world titles with Red Bull, marking a significant era for the Milton Keynes team. At just 21 years and 74 days old, Vettel became the youngest driver to achieve pole position and, later, the youngest to win a Grand Prix. Between 2010 and 2013, he dominated the sport, clinching four world championships during a period of fierce competition, with notable drivers like Hamilton, Raikkonen, Alonso, and Schumacher on the grid.
However, the legendary racer decided to put a full stop on his F1 career in 2022 after a string of low performances. After two years, speculations of his F1 comeback have resurfaced. Thus, his former engineer, Adrian Newey, has quashed all the rumors regarding Vettel’s return.
“He’s Moved On,” Newey Confirms Vettel Not Interested In F1 Return
The rumors of Vettel’s return were fueled when Audi confirmed its F1 comeback. The team has signed Nico Hulkenberg and will compete from 2026 onwards. Thus, fans believed Vettel would form an all-German outfit, marking a return to the sport. However, Newey has quashed all the rumors in his recent High-Performance podcast appearance. During the conversation, Newey discussed a phone call he had with Vettel. Subsequently, the co-host questioned Newey about the possibility of Vettel’s F1 return. The Aston Martin-bound engineer dismissed the idea, stating it was nothing more than a rumor. The Briton claimed Vettel is happy with his life and has moved on. “He is doing different things, fair play to him,” Newey said.
However, Newey isn’t the only F1 personnel discussing Vettel’s potential F1 comeback. The recently appointed Audi Boss, Mattia Binotto, also responded to such rumors. Binotto worked alongside Vettel during his Ferrari days. Thus, he knows the German racer well. Additionally, the Audi boss noted that while the retired racer is currently enjoying his time away from competitive racing, he might still keep his options open. However, Binotto refused to elaborate further and gave a vague response.
Earlier, Red Bull senior advisor Helmut Marko claimed Vettel continues to inquire about the team’s second seat. Marko highlighted that the veteran racer is interested in being Max Verstappen’s partner. However, the Austrian executive feels driving alongside a driver like Verstappen could be an ‘unpleasant’ experience for Vettel.
Adrian Newey Slams British Media For Vilifying Red Bull Stars
Red Bull chief technical officer Adrian Newey has slammed British Media, including Sky Sports, for spreading a false narrative against the Red Bull stars. Newey believes the British media doesn’t appreciate Verstappen and’ demonizes’ him as they did with Vettel.
He feels this ‘demonization,’ which both the champions have suffered at times, is unfair and unjust. Further, he accused Sky Sports of having ‘Nationalistic’ coverage despite an international viewers base.