Vettel, one last race between frustrations and emotions

There it's finished. Sebastian Vettel ended his career in Formula 1 by crossing the finish line of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, before of course treating ourselves to a few “donuts” in front of spectators and television viewers from around the world. The end of a chapter, of an era, at the end of a weekend filled with emotions and tributes for the German driver.

On the track, the epilogue was unfortunately not as brilliant. Starting well from 9th place and fighting with the Alpine, Sebastian Vettel and Aston Martin tried to take the risk of making only one stop. Bet lost. “I would have liked to get a few more points, but I enjoyed the race, declared the four-time world champion upon arrival. I had a… different preparation for the race today, obviously, but once the lights go out, I go into 100% race mode. Today we didn't opt ​​for the best strategy, it's a shame because we could have gained a position in the constructors' championship. »

The #5 Aston Martin lost a lot of time and ground by staying on the track longer than its opponents. After the only pit stop, Sebastian Vettel had to work one last time to get back into the points. Helped by the abandonment of Lewis Hamilton, the German collected the last point of his career. “We chose to stay on the track, but the more worn the tires were, the further back we went. The one-stop strategy was the slowest today. It wasn't very pleasant to see our car going backwards, but I had some great battles with Daniel [Ricciardo, his former teammate at Red Bull, Editor's note] but I couldn't get close enough to him. It's nice that we were both able to finish in the points. »

“I’m sure I’ll miss it more than I realize now.”

Upon arrival, Formula 1 allowed Sebastian Vettel to go to the starting line to celebrate his career and his final laps with the drivers on the podium. His face marked by fatigue but also by relief at having closed this great chapter of a life, Sebastian Vettel had a last word for his fans and the world of Formula 1.

“It’s a great day, a big thank you for all the support, all the smiles, it was very special. I'm sure I'll miss it more than I realize now. (…) I don't have much to say, I feel completely empty. The last two years have been very disappointing from a sporting point of view but very useful and important in my life.

I've realized a lot of things and I think it's a huge privilege to be in the position we are in and with that comes responsibilities. I hope to pass the baton to other young drivers to continue the work. We have the power to inspire with what we say and what we do. There are much more important things in life than going in circles, but it remains our passion. Thank you for the messages and all the love people have given me. THANKS ! »

Thank you, Sebastian Vettel, for his 15 years in Formula 1. Danke schön Seb!

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