Vettel happy at home but keeping F1 options open

Sebastian Vettel has confirmed he will not race again in Formula 1, though he is prepared to consider other positions within the paddock.

Appearing on ZDF Sportstudio alongside members of the Germany SailGP team he co-owns, the four-time world champion said: “The kids are incredibly fun at home, the tractor has to be steered, but who knows.”

Pressed about an F1 comeback, Vettel was unequivocal: “No. Not as a driver, that time is over, but perhaps taking on one or two roles is absolutely conceivable.”

For now, the 38-year-old insists he is “really happy and has enough to do.” Earlier this season, the German was linked to a non-driving role at Red Bull as a potential successor to Dr Helmut Marko.

However, following Christian Horner’s exit, Marko’s influence appears intact and those rumours have faded.

Vettel’s “who knows” comment was instead aimed at potential limited racing commitments outside F1. He tested a Porsche 963 last year amid talk of a Le Mans programme, but no deal materialised.

“I drove a car like that once because I was interested in it,” Vettel explained. “It was fun, but nothing more has happened so far, but I still have a bit of time.” F

or now, Vettel divides his competitive interests between his SailGP project and home life. “I have enough on my plate,” he smiled.