Sebastian Vettel did a special lap of honor before his last Formula 1 race in Abu Dhabi.
The four-time World Champion invited the paddock, with which he traveled all year, for a night run on the 5.281-kilometer Yas Marina Circuit.
Hundreds of white T-shirts were distributed in advance. The inscription on the front read: “Thank you Seb”.
Numerous long-time companions were present, above all Formula 1 Managing Director Stefano Domenicali. Father Norbert did not miss the humorous event, nor did Vettel’s wife Hanna.
Haas driver Mick Schumacher even ran the lap of honor with his buddy, as did Vettel’s current Aston Martin team boss Mike Krack.
“Thanks to Formula 1 for all the years and thanks to the paddock,” said Vettel before starting the lap a few minutes after 9:00 p.m. local time. The front of his t-shirt read “Thank you F1”.
After 16 years, the Heppenheimer says goodbye to Formula 1. The 35-year-old wants to spend more time with his family and devote himself to new professional projects.