The 36-year-old former German driver revealed in an interview with Sky Sports television on Wednesday that he may be interested in securing a seat for the 2025 season.
“I am considering it potentially, as I am currently without a team. However, the question is whether I am actively seeking one. I believe it depends on the overall package,” he said.
“I retired from Formula 1 with no intention of returning, but I mentioned that you never know what the future holds. So I think that statement is still valid,” he added.
Vettel won his four championships with Red Bull and retired at the end of the 2022 season after a final campaign with Aston Martin, following a six-year period with Ferrari.
Mercedes currently has a seat available for the 2025 season, as seven-time F1 world champion Lewis Hamilton, who is now 39 years old but still younger than 42-year-old Spaniard Fernando Alonso, will be moving to Ferrari at the end of this year.
The German team had its last German driver in Nico Rosberg, who abruptly retired after winning the 2016 world championship.
“You can never predict where life will take you, so maybe it will lead me back to the driver’s seat, or maybe not,” said Vettel, who recently tested a Porsche Penske Le Mans hypercar and may debut in the 24-hour race.
When asked by Sky if he would be able to resist an opportunity with Mercedes if it was presented to him, Vettel replied: “I have had conversations with him (Wolff), although not specifically about the seat. We briefly touched on the overall situation as well.”
“But I have also spoken with others because I still keep in touch with them from time to time. I have some projects and ideas in collaboration with F1. We will see if they come to fruition or not.”
“So I am keeping in touch. I am not sure. Probably a few more calls and conversations will be needed to have a better understanding. However, it is undoubtedly one of the most desirable places on the grid,” Vettel concluded. (Reporting by Alan Baldwin)
