Vettel towards Ferrari, according to Horner
After the announcement of Sebastian Vettel's departure, Christian Horner spoke, thanking his driver for their six years of collaboration but also confirming that Ferrari was undoubtedly his next destination.
The announcement of Sebastian Vettel’s departure took the F1 world by surprise. The German driver is rumored to be heading to Ferrari, which Christian Horner confirms, to replace Fernando Alonso, who rumors suggest will join McLaren in 2015.
Precisely, the Red Bull director indicated in Suzuka that he had been informed of his driver’s decision on Friday: “Obviously, I know him very well, we spend a lot of time together, and you could see that it was somewhat on his mind recently. Inevitably, a decision like this is not taken lightly, but last night he sat down with us and informed us. So, all I can do is wish him the best for the future. He will always remain close to our hearts at Red Bull, but on January 1st, he will be a competitor.”
The Briton also confirmed that the Scuderia should be the next destination for the German: « Obviously, Ferrari made him a very attractive offer. » He also stated that there was no question of holding him back: « When someone’s heart is elsewhere, a piece of paper matters little. It has to be right for both parties. He has reached a stage in his career where he is engaged with a new challenge, it’s his prerogative and, as in any relationship, if someone’s heart is elsewhere then it’s time to move on. »
Some sources seem to indicate, however, that Vettel had a contractual clause allowing him not to complete his contract with Red Bull—which was set to run until the end of 2016—if he was not among the top three drivers in the general standings as of September 30.
He understands the need for new motivation from the four-time champion: “I think the allure of Ferrari, a door that opened with what’s happening [the probable departure of Fernando Alonso, ed.] and he decided the timing was right for him. It’s his choice, and he’s been around long enough to know what he wants. He doesn’t have a manager and has no one surrounding him. He made his decision and we respect that,” he stated, as reported by Autosport.
Sebastian Vettel has so far spent six seasons at Red Bull, winning four consecutive world titles, 38 Grand Prix (including one with Toro Rosso in 2008), and securing 44 pole positions.
