The world of Formula 1 lost an iconic and charismatic figure when Sebastian Vettel announced his retirement at the end of 2022. A driver who left his mark on the entire circus and is still highly respected by current drivers. Despite his initial intentions not to return to F1, Vettel now seems increasingly likely to rejoin Red Bull, but in a different capacity.
Sebastian Vettel’s paths with Formula 1 parted ways at the end of 2022 when the German decided to end his racing career in F1. However, his connection to the world of motorsport and the relationships he built with his colleagues have kept him involved in various ways. One of the most touching moments was his performance with Senna’s McLaren at Imola in 2024, when he made the V12 engine roar on the Santerno. Among other gestures, he also created a small beehive corner on the Suzuka track, building beehives in Turn 1.
A career that has now turned toward environmental protection, with green initiatives and those aimed at inclusivity in motorsport. “Race without trace” or “Race 4 Women” are the most famous, with the first laying the groundwork for the Imola 2024 event, featuring a McLaren Honda powered by non-fossil fuels and more environmentally friendly.
Racing has never left Vettel’s heart, as evidenced by a test he conducted last year at Aragon with a Porsche from the Penske team in the WEC. This test put him in the running for a wildcard entry at Le Mans as a driver for the Stuttgart-based brand, though the Heppenheim native later dismissed this option.
Sebastian Vettel doesn’t give up on racing; he could be Marko’s successor
The four-time world champion is a key figure at Red Bull, having secured four drivers’ titles and as many constructors’ championships. It was a golden era for the Milton Keynes team, especially during the final years of the naturally aspirated engines when they dominated.
A charismatic figure who has never truly left the paddock, Sebastian Vettel continues to exchange messages with current drivers and offer advice. He has become a fatherly figure whom people can rely on, well-versed in the inner workings of Formula 1.
His extensive experience could be invaluable to Red Bull, who have reportedly contacted him to become the team’s new senior consultant. This role is currently held by Helmut Marko, who might step down by the end of 2025. The rumor was shared by Joan Villadelprat, a well-known journalist who has been in the paddock for years. The news also made its way to the Jeddah paddock,, as reported by the Italian media during the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix weekend.
It seems that Sebastian Vettel could take on the responsibility of helping develop new talents at Red Bull and supporting the drivers, essentially returning to F1 nearly full-time.
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