Four-time champion Sebastian Vettel caused shockwaves in July when he announced that 2022 would be his last season racing in Formula 1.
Sure, Vettel hasn’t won a title since 2013, and hasn’t figured up front since 2019, but this was still one of the all-time greats hanging up his helmet. He is third on the all-time win list, fourth in pole positions, and fourth-equal in titles.
What’s more, he recognized matters way beyond the paddock turnsstiles, about which he could use his high profile to raise awareness. The timing of his announcement meant he could have a farewell tour, of sorts, and it graciously gave Aston Martin leeway to find a replacement, namely Fernando Alonso.
Vettel conceded the decision, and public announcement, lifted a weight, and he performed strongly across his final events. The goodwill displayed by his competitors, teams past and present, and the remainder of the Formula 1 community, underlined the esteem in which he is held.
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https://formulaone.news/red-bull/first-details-of-red-bulls-2023-challenger-uncovered
