Vettel is worried about the future of motorsports if no changes are made
The four-time Formula 1 world champion, Sebastian Vettel, is concerned about climate change and the future of motorsports if nothing is done to make it greener.
Sebastian Vettel has long made headlines on and off the track. He is known for his outspoken opinions on subjects such as politics and the environment. As the German driver retired during the 2022 F1 season, he spoke about the future of motorsport in an interview with the Italian newspaper, Corriere dello Sport.
In a context of growing awareness of climate change, motorsport is under scrutiny. Indeed, it is one of the most polluting sports and its impact on the environment is highly criticized. Vettel is well aware of this and warns of a potential disappearance if nothing changes.
« Motorsport is in danger of being banned, changes are necessary,” he declares before adding, « I love motorsport and I am very cautious when it comes to its future. We have young drivers, I myself have children, and I truly believe it is a privilege to experience motorsport as I have. It would be a shame if one day it were to be banned, for obvious reasons. »
The driver had already spoken about this topic in a British show last May. The presenter had then questioned him somewhat about his hypocrisy since he was one of the headliners in Formula 1. « Driving remains my passion, I love it, and every time I get in the car, I enjoy it. When I get out, on the other hand, of course, I wonder if it’s really something we should be doing, traveling around the world and wasting all these resources?” he had replied.
In recent months, progress has been noticeable since Formula 1 signed an agreement with the United Nations in 2022. This initiative called “sport for climate action” imposes five criteria on signatories with the aim of limiting ecological impact and promoting responsible consumption.
One of the ambitions of Formula 1 regarding the environment is also to become carbon neutral by 2030.
Sebastian Vettel also praised these commitments. « We can continue to do things as we are used to for a few more years before facing a very big problem. So it’s good to see that people care about it. Obviously, it depends on the type of race, but the movement is there, people are trying to create a sustainable future. »
