What Vettel says in his retirement announcement

In a four-minute video message, the four-time world champion took the time to explain the reasons for his departure from Formula 1. Referring to his family and his passion for motorsport, Vettel then looks ahead to his future challenges without describing them precisely. Reading between the lines, it comes as no surprise that the future former Aston Martin driver is heading towards activities related to ecology, a term that is never mentioned in this carefully prepared announcement by Vettel.

(e) I am here to announce my departure from Formula 1 at the end of the 2022 season. I should probably start by listing the long list of people I have to thank, but I think it is more important to explain the reasons behind my decision.

I like this sport.

He has been central in my life for as long as I can remember. But while there is a life on the track, there is also my life outside of it. Being a racing driver has never been my sole identity. I truly believe that identity is defined by who we are and how we treat others, rather than by what we do.

« Who am I? »

I am Sebastian, father of three children and husband to a wonderful woman. I am curious and easily fascinated by passionate and competent individuals. I am obsessed with perfection. I am tolerant and believe that we all have the same rights to live, no matter what we look like, where we come from, and who we love. I enjoy being outdoors and love nature and its wonders. I am stubborn and impatient. I can be very annoying. I like to make people laugh. I love chocolate and the smell of fresh bread. My favorite color is blue.

I believe in change and progress, and in the fact that every little thing can make a difference. I am an optimist and I believe that people are good. Besides car racing, I have raised a family and I love being with them. I have developed other interests outside of F1. My passion for car racing and Formula 1 comes with a lot of time spent away from them and takes a lot of energy.

To involve myself in my passion in the way I have done and believe to be the right way, no longer aligns with my desire to be a good father and a good husband. The amount of energy it takes to merge with the car and the team, in pursuit of perfection, requires focus and commitment.

My goals have changed from winning races and fighting for championships, to seeing my children grow, transmitting my values to them, helping them rise when they fall, listening to them when they need me, not having to say goodbye, and most importantly, being able to learn from them and let them inspire me.

The children are our future.

I feel that there are so many things to explore and learn, about life and myself. Speaking of the future, I believe we are living in truly decisive moments. And the way we behave in the coming years will determine our lives.

My passion comes with certain aspects that I have learned not to like. They could be resolved in the future, but the will to implement these changes must grow stronger, and must lead to actions today. Talking is not enough and we cannot afford to wait. There is no alternative. The race is on.

« My best race? It is still to come »

I believe in moving forward and progressing. Time is a one-way street and I want to go along with it. Looking back will only slow you down. I am eager to run on unknown tracks and I will find new challenges. The marks I have left on the track will remain until time and rain make them disappear. New ones will be inscribed.

Tomorrow belongs to those who shape today. The next turn is in good hands as the new generation has already taken it. I believe there is still a race to be won. Goodbye and thank you for allowing me to share the track with you. I have enjoyed every moment.