Sebastian Vettel is considering a return to Formula 1 as he engages in discussions with Mercedes boss Toto Wolff and other team principals.
The four-time world champion retired in 2022 after a 16-season career in F1 but has been linked to a possible comeback to the grid.
Mercedes has a seat available for 2025 following Lewis Hamilton’s move to Ferrari, while Red Bull, where Vettel won his titles, could also have an opening with Sergio Perez’s contract expiring.
“I’m in conversation with various people, including Toto, not specifically about Mercedes, but about other matters,” Vettel shared with Sky News. “I do think about it, but it’s not the main focus.
“I have three kids at home, and it’s a busy household, so I have other thoughts as well.
“Driving fast is not the only thing, but the competition excites me the most.”
Vettel recently tested a Porsche hypercar for the 24 Hours of Le Mans race and is open to the possibility of participating.
“Maybe, I don’t know yet,” Vettel remarked.
He emphasized his interest in diverse experiences both on and off the track, suggesting he is considering various options beyond racing.
Vettel tempted by Le Mans opportunity
If he were to return to F1, Vettel would currently only be the third eldest driver on the grid, with the 39-year-old Hamilton and 42-year-old Fernando Alonso still performing at a high level.
Asked what he has missed since hanging up his helmet, Vettel added: “The thrill, the speed. I think the competition mostly, really.
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Four-time Formula 1 world champion Sebastian Vettel returned to track action as he tested the Porsche 963 hypercar that will feature in 24 Hours of Le Mans later this year.
“I have been testing. I was curious to experience it and see how it feels. It’s a different discipline, a different challenge,” Vettel explained.
“There are many things that excite me, not just behind the wheel but also outside the car.”Vettel remains open to the opportunity but is also exploring other interests beyond racing.
‘Hamilton Ferrari switch surprising but exciting’
Having shared intense world championship battles earlier in their careers, Vettel and Hamilton had developed a strong relationship by the time the former retired.
With Hamilton set to follow in Vettel’s footsteps by driving at Ferrari, the German admitted he was “surprised” by the switch.
“I was surprised, like I guess most of us,” Vettel said.
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“But it’s exciting. He’s seeking a new challenge, and it will be interesting to see him wearing red, in a different team color.”
The final two seasons of Vettel’s Ferrari tenure had him partnering with Charles Leclerc, who continues with the team and will be Hamilton’s teammate next year.
Vettel believes they will get along, but warns that Ferrari’s Team Principal Frederic Vasseur will face a challenge in managing their competitiveness.
“Charles is good, very quick and competitive, but Lewis is too,” Vettel noted. “So, it might be more challenging for the team to handle.”
Sky Sports F1’s live Japanese GP schedule
Thursday April 4
4:30am: Drivers’ press conference
Friday April 5
3am: Japanese GP Practice One (session starts at 3:30am)*
6:45am: Japanese GP Practice Two (session starts at 7am)*
8:15am: The F1 Show*
10am: Japanese GP Practice One replay
11:30am: Japanese GP Practice Two replay