F1 News: Sebastian Vettel's Former Team Chief Hopes He Regrets Retirement

Mike Krack reflects on Vettel''s retirement.

Mike Krack, Aston Martin F1 team principal has spoken out on Sebastian Vettel's retirement from the sport at the end of last year, saying that he hopes he regrets the decision. 

It was announced during 2022 that the German driver and four-time champion had decided to head into retirement at the end of the year. 

During an interview with Motorsport Magazin, Vettel's former team principal spoke about his retirement. Krack said:

“When things went up in Singapore and Suzuka, you could see his joy. When you heard him on the radio, you immediately knew he was there.

“He was sharp, he was really in the flow. You could tell in the last races that a car that gives him more feedback, more performance, motivates him even more.

“I have to say: hats off! He had a difficult time, often dropped out in Q1, but he never let his head down and always continued to support the team and Lance. That was very exemplary.

“I’m glad he’s where he is – but it’s a shame he decided to quit. I hope he regrets it.”

The four-time champion has recently competed in the Race of Champions alongside fellow German driver and god-son Mick Schumacher, where he has said he would "seriously consider" making a one-off F1 appearance at Suzuka. Vettel said:

“I always liked, for some reason, rallying, but I can see it’s a major challenge, because it's so different to what we do in, let's say, classic circuit racing. So I don't know. We'll see.”

The 2023 F1 season kicks off with the Bahrain Grand Prix on 3-5 March with the pre-season testing the week prior. The season will consist of a record-breaking 23 races including three in the United States, in Austin, Miami, and Las Vegas.