F1 News: Sebastian Vettel Claims ICE Bans Are Not The Answer To Climate Crisis

F1 legend Sebastian Vettel claims that banning Internal Combustion Engine vehicles is not the answer for the ongoing climate change issues.
F1 News: Sebastian Vettel Claims ICE Bans Are Not The Answer To Climate Crisis
F1 News: Sebastian Vettel Claims ICE Bans Are Not The Answer To Climate Crisis /

Four-time F1 champion Sebastian Vettel has long been an advocate for environmental consciousness. Recently, the German driver delved into the conversation around the future of motor vehicles amidst rising environmental concerns. 

Vettel highlighted that the answer doesn't lie in outright bans on cars and motorbikes, but in looking towards sustainable alternatives.

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In a recent conversation with The Red Bulletin, Vettel shared his perspective. Instead of focusing on restricting vehicles, he emphasises the significance of looking towards already existing alternatives. He commented:

"I think it's important not to talk about bans and waivers, but to emphasise the alternatives, and they often already exist.

“Cars and motorcycles are cultural assets. A lot of good has come of it. We should not abolish them, but keep them alive.”

Sebastian Vettel

Ever since Vettel retired from F1 at the end of 2022 there has been a huge amount of speculation about whether fans might see a return from the iconic driver. As the sport gears up for the V6 hybrid era in 2026, this environmentally-focused phase seems to align with Vettel’s ethos. 

With Formula 1's ambitious goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2030, Vettel might find a new role, either back on the grid or as an influential guide steering the sport towards its green objectives. That's the hope of a lot of fans anyway.

Sebastian Vettel - Red Bull

Speaking about balancing his two passions, Vettel added:

“It still gives me a lot of pleasure. On the other hand, I understand people who see the climate catastrophe as an existential threat to themselves.

"I personally work very hard on this balancing act of not letting myself be guided by fear and being able to enjoy the moment."


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Lydia Mee
LYDIA MEE

Lydia is the lead editor of F1 editorial. After following the sport for several years, she was finally able to attend the British Grand Prix in person in 2017. Since then, she's been addicted to not only the racing, but the atmosphere the fans bring to each event. She's a strong advocate for women in motorsport and a more diverse industry.