Sebastian Vettel Reveals F1 Return Talks with Red Bull

Former F1 champion Sebastian Vettel has confirmed having discussions with Red Bull to return to the grid.

Sebastian Vettel Reveals F1 Return Talks with Red Bull

Max Verstappen and Sebastian Vettel (via Alamy)

Four-time world champion Sebastian Vettel retired from Formula 1 at the end of the 2022 season. The German driver achieved incredible success during his career, with four consecutive world titles at Red Bull. Since his exit from the sport, fans have wished to see the 37-year-old return to the grid. While rumors have surfaced over such a possibility in the past, Vettel has finally confirmed that he is in discussions to be back in F1.

The German driver has previously been linked to racing at Le Mans or even Formula E. Though, neither of these discussions proved to be fruitful. Sebastian Vettel has continued to stay close to the racing world, as he promotes sustainable fuel for motorsport.

A few weeks ago, Red Bull Motorsport Consultant Dr. Helmut Marko claimed that Vettel would be his ideal replacement at Milton Keynes. The 82-year-old hoped that the F1 champion would be able to fill in his shoes and guide the team.

Vettel claimed these reports have made headlines recently. The 37-year-old shares a good rapport with Marko, and the two have discussed this idea. Though, the German asserted that things remained in the early stages for now. As Sebastian Vettel tried to understand what role would be ideal for his return to Milton Keynes.

There have been a few headlines now, I still get along very well with Helmut, and we are also in exchange on the subject. These are not yet so intense, and in-depth, but it may be something where I can play a role, but in what form, it will show. 

Sebastian Vettel told ORF

The former F1 champion confessed that he has been away from the sport for a couple of years now. Nevertheless, Vettel trusted Marko’s thinking. With the 82-year-old’s plans seemingly right for the German driver.

But I have to admit that I haven’t been close to F1 in the last few years, but I think Marko knows what he is doing – and no matter what happens, you can still learn a lot from him.

Sebastian Vettel added

Sebastian Vettel praises ‘irreplaceable’ Helmut Marko

Dr. Helmut Marko has played a pivotal role in shaping Red Bull’s motorsport activities. The Austrian was a close aide of Red Bull co-founder Dietrich Mateschitz, and yielded immense influence at Milton Keynes. Marko’s efforts into the Red Bull driver program was what brought talents like Sebastian Vettel and Max Verstappen to Formula 1.

Helmut Marko and Sebastian Vettel
Helmut Marko (via Autosport) and Sebastian Vettel (via Getty images)

Vettel has had good relations with the 82-year-old since his early days with the energy-drinks giant. The German declared that Marko was simply irreplaceable for Red Bull. The former Aston Martin driver hinted that no one could really fill in the shoes left by the Austrian once he decides to retire from his role. Though, Sebastian Vettel asserted that he would want Marko to continue for the foreseeable future.

Marko is not replaceable, let’s leave it at that, such as his character, and he has done a very large amount for the team since 2005, and it might not be the goal for someone to replace him. He’s said a few times that he is going to stop, but he is still there, and I wish he would stay for a long time, but he will go at some point, and he knows it. 

Sebastian Vettel added

Certainly, Red Bull would benefit greatly from having Sebastian Vettel within the team. The German driver has immense experience in the sport, and knows how to deal with difficult situations. Such wisdom might come handy during the situation Milton Keynes faces today, as it fails to build an easy-to-drive car. Moreover, Vettel’s return would be loved by millions of fans worldwide. Thus, fans would be hoping for the 37-year-old to soon announce his move back to Milton Keynes.

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