2024-08-14 17:59:11
One and a half years ago, Sebastian Vettel retired from Formula 1. Now there could be a spectacular return.
Sebastian Vettel could actually celebrate his comeback in Formula 1. This is reported by “oe24”. According to the Austrian magazine, Vettel could join Team Audi (previously Sauber), which will make its debut in the racing series in 2026.
Former Ferrari team boss Mattia Binotto took over the CEO role at Audi from Andreas Seidl. The only driver signed so far is Nico Hülkenberg. Audi actually wanted to sign Carlos Sainz, but he has now signed with Williams from 2025, which is why he is unlikely to be available for Audi. A chance for Vettel?
As “oe24” learned from Red Bull boss Helmut Marko, who has good connections with the 37-year-old, Vettel wants to return to Formula 1. But: Neither the Austrian racing team nor Mercedes showed any interest in signing the four-time world champion until recently. In April, Vettel is said to have asked both teams about the cockpits that were open there, but without success.
An indication that, in turn, speaks in favor of Vettel at Audi: With Jonathan Wheatley, the racing team will have a team boss with whom the German is very familiar. Vettel won his four world championship titles at Red Bull under Wheatley. Now the successful collaboration could continue.
On the other hand, “Bild” writes that Vettel only has an outside chance of getting the cockpit alongside Hülkenberg. The favorite for the second driver position at Audi is apparently Valtteri Bottas. Mattia Binotto could also pose a problem for the Formula 1 comeback. In 2020, Vettel did not receive a new contract at Ferrari under the Italian.