Why Sebastian Vettel is retiring and who is set to replace him…

By Joe Man

Seb to retire! Four time world champion Sebastian Vettel announced on Thursday that he is to retire at the end of 2022. The news has come as a bit of a shock to the fans of F1 as recent rumours seemed to point to him continuing on. He will retire as the third most successful driver of all time with 53 wins and four world championships. While the news is a surprise its been clear that Vettel has been focusing on life away from Formula 1. In his statement released on Instagram Seb talked at length on a wide range of reasons why he has chosen to end his racing career. Time with family has become more important than the endless circus of the sport. So too has his desire to be a champion on environmental matters and his push for change on equality. The video shows what a fine ambassador for not only the sport but for the things that matter most Seb has become.

He will be missed enormously in the paddock and by fans the world over. Obviously now the question must be asked. Who gets the seat at Aston? Currently their reserve driver is Nico Hulkenburg but he seems unlikely to get the seat full time. The hot properties for 2023 are Mercedes Nick De Vries and Alpine’s Oscar Piastri. Neither team want to loose these drivers but with Alonso and Hamilton showing no signs of retiring themselves, they both need to find their young talents a seat. Phones will be ringing hot tonight! Perhaps a return for Hulkenberg could be the most logical option.