In 46 days, the Formula 1 chapter will close forever for Sebastian Vettel – or not. Ahead of the Japanese Grand Prix in Suzuka, the Aston Martin driver joked about a return to the premier class.
As is well known, the Formula 1 racetrack in Suzuka, Japan, has been a passion for Sebastian Vettel for years. There, the man from Heppenheim not only celebrated four victories, but also secured his 2011 World Championship title. “It’s a great track for many, many reasons,” enthused the 35-year-old at the press conference on Thursday.
When asked if Japanese motorsport fans would see him again in Suzuka after this weekend, possibly in another racing series, the man from Heppenheim said: “I don’t know, but never say never. Of course I love racing. And at this track I’ve always felt very alive. The passion is still there.”
The German did not rule out a Formula 1 comeback on his favorite track. When asked about this, he joked: “Maybe one of the guys is feeling a little sick in one of the upcoming races here. I don’t wish that on them, but I wouldn’t mind jumping in the car again for a race at Suzuka.”
Vettel with declaration of love to Suzuka
But he doesn’t know what the future will bring, explained Vettel, who, according to his own statement, has “no plan” at the moment. However, he did not want to rule out a mini-comeback for a race: “If anyone wants to sign a driver for a race, that would be something I would seriously consider.”
His love for Suzuka would probably be the greatest motivation, the Aston Martin driver revealed: “I’ve always loved this track and I think it stands out from the others. […] I have a lot of good memories here. I didn’t think about it for the other races, although I know that was the last time I drove there. But it just feels different here.”
In addition to the special course layout, it is above all the trappings that make Vettel look wistfully at his last time. “The atmosphere and the attention that the sport gets when we come here is just crazy,” enthused the future Formula 1 pensioner.