Vettel: Prospect of looming F1 retirement is starting to feel ‘real’

Sebastian Vettel says the prospect of his impending retirement from Formula 1 is starting to feel “real” with just three races left in his career.

Four-time World Champion Vettel announced his retirement in July just before the Hungarian Grand Prix – triggering silly season in the driver market, with Fernando Alonso set to replace his old rival at Aston Martin in 2023.

Vettel had been enduring a difficult final season in F1 with an uncompetitive Aston, but an up-tick in performance in recent races has seen him bank 18 points – including a stunning fightback to seventh in the US after a slow pitstop – and Alonso penalty.

The German now admits that stepping away from Grand Prix racing is starting to take its toll – but stands firm behind his decision.

Vettel on retirement

“It is getting a bit more real,” Vettel told media including RacingNews365.com before finishing seventh at Austin in the United States Grand Prix after leading the race for two laps.

“[After] Suzuka, I was a bit sad after qualifying, and Sunday was a little bit up and down with mixed emotions because the race was so different.

“I don’t know how Abu Dhabi (his final planned race) will be from a result point of view, obviously, but I don’t think we expect miracles all of a sudden.

“I also tend to look forward to what’s next, maybe that’s the F1 approach because we want to have a faster car at the next race, but I am excited about what is coming.

“It’s not like I completely hate Formula 1 now and am happy to get out – but obviously I made the decision [to retire] and look forward to what is coming next.”