Räikkönen replaces Vettel at Ferrari

The misstep of Sebastian Vettel (Ferrari) during the 2019 Bahrain Grand Prix was one mistake too many for the German. There Team and the four-time world champion of Formula 1 separated the day after the race with immediate effect. Kimi Räikkönen replaces him.

On lap 38, Sebastian Vettel was guilty of a spin without any contact with the Mercedes de Lewis Hamilton. The wearer of number 5 immediately made amends on the radio, before admitting his wrongs in front of reporters in the Sakhir paddock. 

As dramatic as it was unexpected

Sebastian Vettel's challenge comes to an abrupt end in Sakhir#BahrainGP #F1 pic.twitter.com/QeNjngIIVG

- Formula 1 (@ F1) March 31, 2019

But his apologies will not have been enough, as indicated in the Red press release released this Monday morning. “The Scuderia and Sebastian Vettel have agreed to terminate the contract by mutual agreement. » The lease of the former pilot Red Bull was scheduled to run until the end of 2020. 

"Of course it's a big disappointment for me, recognizes Sebastian Vettel. I arrived at Ferrari with the dream of bringing the team back to world titles, as my model had managed to do. Michael Schumacher in the 2000s. I will remember from these four seasons the passion of the fans and the dedication of my mechanics. »

Sebastian Vettel was guilty of multiple mistakes since the summer of 2018. It all started with a trip off the track in the rain at home in Hockenheim, when he had almost won the race. This was followed by several failed attacks at Monza (Italy), Suzuka (Japan) and Austin (USA), which cost him many points in the fight for the crown.

While Sebastian Vettel is relegated to Alfa Romeo, it is the veteran of the discipline who finds the seat of the Prancing Horse. Kimi Räikkönen, the last man to lead Ferrari to the world title (in 2007) and towards the highest step of the podium (in Austin in 2018) is recalled under the orders of Maranello (Italy).

His combative start to the season with Alfa Romeo (8th and 7th) confirms that, despite his 39 years, “Iceman” has retained his peak speed and consistency. “Bwoah, my job remains the same, which is to turn the wheel and go as fast as possible,” said the paddock elder. It remains to be seen whether Kimi Räikkönen will be able to compete with his new teammate Charles Leclerc.