Sebastian Vettel is unfazed by Aston Martin’s abrupt surge in success from last year

Fernando Alonso has secured six podiums for Aston Martin in the first half of the 2023 Formula One season.

Fernando Alonso (Credits: formulanerds.com) and Sebastian Vettel (Credits: thesportsrush.com)

Sebastian Vettel bid farewell to Formula 1 after the conclusion of the 2022 season. Subsequently, his former team, Aston Martin, has kicked off 2023 with an impressive streak of accomplishments. However, Vettel’s previous outfit has achieved notable milestones, with Fernando Alonso securing three podium finishes in the ongoing racing season.

Sebastian Vettel mentioned that the initial months had passed swiftly, affording him the pleasure of relishing his newfound freedom and efficiently managing his schedule. He acknowledged that many had initially speculated whether he might feel disheartened witnessing Aston Martin’s impressive performance in the ongoing year.

He mused that it could have been simpler if the car’s performance had been subpar, as it would have unequivocally validated his absence. Nevertheless, he expressed contentment with his former team’s success.

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“A lot of peoples first reaction was to wonder if I would be frustrated to see Aston Martin doing so well this year. Maybe it would have been easier. If the car was bad, it was clear that I wasn’t going to miss anything, but I’m happy for the team,” Vettel stated, according to Soymotor.

Also read: Lance Stroll urges Aston Martin to take ‘another step’ to retake best-of-the-rest spot in the 2023 Championship

Sebastian Vettel emerges as a contender for the Audi seat in 2026

Audi to enter F1 in 2026 (Image credit: SportsPro Media)

After an illustrious 15-year tenure in Formula 1, the four-time world champion called for his retirement at the end of the 2022 season. His legacy stands as a monumental one, encompassing not only his on-track triumphs but also his contributions beyond the racecourse. The German harnessed his platform to champion noble causes.

In his current retirement phase, Vettel finds solace in the embrace of his family. Since his departure from Formula 1, his sole foray into racing was a notable appearance at this year’s Race of Champions. This event marked a reunion with his close friend, fellow countryman, and protégé, Mick Schumacher.

Sebastian Vettel has revealed that he drove to all of the European races by car last season instead of taking flights ?

"Most of the reduction was the elimination of flights. With the exception of Silverstone and Budapest, I drove to all of the European races last season."… pic.twitter.com/9recsZV92b
— RBR Daily (@RBR_Daily) August 16, 2023

The horizon of Formula 1 is set to transform with Audi’s anticipated entry in 2026. Take over the reins of the currently Alfa Romeo-branded Sauber team. Vettel’s association with a prestigious German marque like Audi could be a seamless fit. However, the viability of such a partnership remains uncertain, pending mutual interest.

Vettel’s Formula 1 journey holds a captivating twist. His remarkable feat of winning four consecutive championships with Red Bull in the early 2010s might make a reunion with his former team tempting.