Despite his retirement from Formula 1 at the close of 2022, former Red Bull, Ferrari, and Aston Martin driver Sebastian Vettel still harbors thoughts of a return to the iconic sport. However, seasoned racing veteran David Coulthard has offered some blunt advice to the four-time world champion – let the dream go.
Vettel, who now stands at 37 years old, still believes in his physical capability to compete at the elite level. He has even hinted at being receptive to suitable opportunities that may arise. Citing active senior racers like Fernando Alonso, 43, and Lewis Hamilton, 40, Vettel reportedly feels fit enough to still challenge the field. However, Coulthard remains skeptical.
In a candid conversation on talkSPORT, Coulthard advised Vettel to embrace the realities of time and performance, stating, “The stopwatch doesn’t lie. He wasn’t quite up to par at Aston Martin at the end either.” This statement is a clear indication that Coulthard believes Vettel’s prime racing days are behind him.
Vettel, undeterred, has spent the past year exploring potential pathways back into F1. His search led him to Audi, where he held discussions with then-project manager Andreas Seidl, offering his services for their 2026 F1 entry. Unfortunately, the German car manufacturer prioritized signing Carlos Sainz and compatriot Nico Hulkenberg to partner with Gabriel Bortoleto, leaving Vettel on the sidelines.
Even a return to his former team, Red Bull, where he clinched four consecutive world championships from 2010 to 2013, was ruled out. Helmut Marko, an advisor to the team and a long-term ally of Vettel, revealed that the team chose not to pursue Vettel to protect his reputation. Marko told F1-Insider.com, “Max [Verstappen] would have clearly beaten him and damaged Sebastian’s reputation. I couldn’t and didn’t want to let that happen.”
Away from the F1 circuit, Vettel’s immediate racing plans are limited, with family commitments putting a pause on his involvement in Porsche’s 24 Hours of Le Mans project. However, he is set to represent Germany alongside Mick Schumacher in the Race of Champions in Australia this March.
Interestingly, Vettel is also venturing into a different field – agriculture. He’s currently studying in Switzerland at the Pfaffikon Vocational Training Centre, aiming to earn official farmer qualifications. Upon successful completion of his oral exams in April and May 2025, Vettel will be certified to manage his own farm.
“The potential in agriculture fascinates me,” Vettel shared with F1-Insider.com. “Also for the climate, for the changes and challenges we all face.” Demonstrating his commitment to environmental causes, Vettel has been an active voice for sustainability during his final years in F1. He has championed initiatives like beekeeping projects and the use of alternative fuels in demonstration laps.
While Vettel’s return to F1 remains a question mark, his dedication to climate activism and sustainable practices is a sure bet. Whether he reignites his racing career or transitions into agriculture, Vettel’s focus is on making a lasting, positive impact.