Marko: Vettel asked about returning to Red Bull F1 several times.

In a recent statement, Helmut Marko, a consultant for Red Bull Formula 1, revealed that Sebastian Vettel has expressed interest in returning to the team to partner with Max Verstappen. This comes after Red Bull had a vacant seat alongside Verstappen, which was later filled by Sergio Perez. While there were rumors that Carlos Sainz could join the team, Marko has now confirmed that Vettel was also exploring his options. Vettel, who had a successful stint with Red Bull from 2010 to 2013, winning four consecutive driver’s titles and 38 victories, left the team in 2014 to join Ferrari. After six seasons with Ferrari and a final season with Aston Martin in 2022, Vettel retired from Formula 1. However, Marko’s comments suggest that Vettel would consider a comeback if given the opportunity. Marko mentioned that Vettel has contacted them several times, but believes it may not be ideal for Vettel to drive alongside Verstappen. Vettel recently tested a Porsche Hypercar in Aragon, indicating a potential interest in endurance racing. Marko supports Vettel exploring other racing disciplines and believes that competing in the iconic 24 Hours of Le Mans would be a great step for him. Vettel made a notable appearance in the F1 paddock at Imola last month, where he drove Ayrton Senna’s 1993 McLaren car, marking 30 years since Senna’s tragic death. Vettel expressed his strong emotions during this experience and emphasized the importance of remembering drivers like Senna and Roland Ratzenberger, who also lost their lives in the sport.