Vettel says he may walk away from F1 for good

Sebastian Vettel is prepared to walk away from Formula One for good if he doesn’t get a convincing offer for next season.

The four-time F1 champion will leave Ferrari at the end of the year after failing to get a new contract. He faces an uncertain future with only limited options available for 2021 and has not started discussions with other teams.

The truncated season starts this Sunday with the Austrian Grand Prix.

Vettel said: “I want to make sure I make the right decision for myself and my future. I have a very competitive nature; I’ve achieved a lot in the sport and I’m motivated and willing to achieve more.

“To do so I need the right package and the right people around me, so that’s what I’m looking out for at the moment. If the right opportunity should arise then I think it’s quite clear. If that’s not the case I probably have to look out for something else.”

Unlike two-time champion Fernando Alonso, who is open to an F1 return next season after quitting following the 2018 campaign, Vettel said his possible exit from the sport wouldn’t be temporary.

“I am of the conviction that if you are prepared to shut the door then you should be prepared to shut that door and not expect it to open again,” he added.

“You have to be aware of the decision you are making, that’s also why I am not rushing into anything. The next weeks and months will probably bring some more clarity.”

One possible option for the 32-year-old German is Renault, who are losing Daniel Ricciardo to Mclaren next year, but Alonso is also being considered by the French team as his replacement.

Vettel was outperformed by team-mate Charles Leclerc last season, even though it was Leclerc’s first season with Ferrari and only his second in F1.

While 22-year-old Monegasque Leclerc was offered a new five-year contract until 2024, Vettel and Ferrari team principal Mattia Binotto could not agree on a new deal.