Will Sebastian Vettel really make a shock F1 return?

Rumors have surfaced that Sebastian Vettel could return to F1 in 2026. However is the German driver ready to end his retirement?

Will Sebastian Vettel really make a shock F1 return?

Sebastian Vettel (via IMAGO)

Four-time F1 world champion Sebastian Vettel retired from Formula 1 at the end of the 2022 season. The German driver had raced in the pinnacle of motorsport for well over a decade. However, Vettel decided to end his career to focus on his family and to give young drivers a chance in F1.

Almost two years later, rumors have kept on coming that Sebastian Vettel might soon end his F1 retirement altogether. Audi’s entry into the sport in 2026 has become the best option for Vettel’s return. Previously, the German was even rumored to replace Ferrari-bound Lewis Hamilton at Mercedes next season.

YouTube video

Red Bull Motorsport Consultant Dr. Helmut Marko recently hinted that Sebastian Vettel might join Audi in 2026. However, the 81-year-old soon clarified that he was simply speculating. This has made fans wonder if Sebastian Vettel will ever return to Formula 1?

FS Video
RELATED
George Russell cannot afford to have Max Verstappen join Mercedes
George Russell and Max Verstappen

Sebastian Vettel still has a love for racing

Sebastian Vettel has maintained a low profile since his retirement. However, the four-time world champion did test out a Porsche WEC Hypercar for a potential deal for the 24 Hours of Le Mans. This did not materialize and Vettel did not make his endurance racing debut.

Sebastian Vettel
Sebastian Vettel (via IMAGO)

Unfortunately, the four-time world champion seems reluctant to get back to the F1 paddock. The German driver currently advocates for sustainable fuel and even paid tribute to Ayrton Senna at Imola this season. Sebastian Vettel has become more focused on spending time with his children. Christian Horner revealed that Vettel missed Red Bull’s 20th anniversary run as he was on vacation during that weekend.

The Formula 1 calendar is hectic as ever with multiple triple headers. This leaves virtually no room for drivers to be in touch with their families, something which Vettel does not want to do anymore. Even if the German receives lucrative offers to return, he has achieved immense success in the sport and would not be willing to change his mind.

In case you missed it: