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PARIS: Four-time Formula One world champion Sebastian Vettel said Tuesday that he would leave Ferrari at the end of the season, saying there was no longer a “common desire” to work together.
No replacement was named for Vettel, who dominated F1 with Red Bull before switching to the Italian brand in 2015. He said his departure was a “joint decision.”
“My relationship with Scuderia Ferrari will end in late 2020,” the 32-year-old German said in a Ferrari statement.
“To obtain the best possible results in this sport, it is vital that all parties work in perfect harmony.
“The team and I have realized that there is no longer a common desire to stay together beyond the end of this season.”
Vettel, who won 14 races with Ferrari, said financial considerations played no role in his decision. He said he would “reflect on what really matters when it comes to my future.”
Vettel’s departure will spark intense speculation about his replacement, with reigning Mercedes world champion Lewis Hamilton among the drivers previously linked to Ferrari.
“This is a decision made jointly by us and Sebastian, one that both sides consider to be the best,” said team principal Mattia Binotto.
“It was not an easy decision to make, given Sebastian’s value as a driver and as a person.
“There was no specific reason that led to this decision, other than the common and friendly belief that the time had come to go our separate ways to achieve our respective goals.” – AFP
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