Sebastian Vettel, one of the most successful Formula 1 drivers of his time, officially ended his F1 career at the end of the 2022 season. The German star won 53 races and four World Championships during his career. Most of his success came with Red Bull in the early 2010s, before he moved to Ferrari, where he added 14 more wins. He spent his final two seasons racing for Aston Martin.

Last year, there were rumours that Vettel might return to Formula 1, possibly even replacing Sergio Perez at Red Bull. These stories gained attention when Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko said that Vettel had asked about the seat. However, Vettel, who has spoken in the past about the idea of returning to Formula 1, has now put an end to the speculation. Speaking to Auto Motor und Sport, he made it clear that those days are behind him.

“Formula 1 is over.” He explained that it’s time to make space for younger drivers and that he once felt the same way when he was starting out. “Back then, I didn’t care who stopped driving – I just wanted my chance,” he added.

Even though he won’t return to Formula 1, Vettel may not be finished with motorsport completely. In 2023, he tested a Porsche hypercar in Spain, and there are suggestions he might race in the World Endurance Championship (WEC). This series only has eight races per season, and Vettel said that could fit better with his current lifestyle. But he also added that he wouldn’t want to race “just a little bit” – if he joins, it has to be serious. “When I do something, I want to do it properly,” he said.