Sebastian Vettel to retire from Formula One at the end of 2022 season

Four-times world champion Sebastian Vettel has announced that he will be retiring from Formula One at the end of the 2022 season.

The German, 35, drives for the Aston Martin team and won his world titles with Red Bull during an impressive spell in 2010-13. He also spent six seasons with Ferrari.

Vettel – who is currently 14th in the drivers' standing with 15 points, 218 behind leader Max Vertstappen – made the announcement before this weekend's Hungarian Grand Prix.

“I have had the privilege of working with many fantastic people in Formula One over the past 15 years - there are far too many to mention and thank,” Vettel said.

“The decision to retire has been a difficult one for me to take, and I have spent a lot of time thinking about it.

“At the end of the year I want to take some more time to reflect on what I will focus on next; it is very clear to me that, being a father, I want to spend more time with my family. But today is not about saying goodbye. Rather, it is about saying thank you – to everyone – not least to the fans, without whose passionate support Formula One could not exist.”

Sebastian, you have inspired so many throughout your career, both in #F1 and beyond. We’re proud to call you a teammate, a friend and to have been part of your journey, just as you have been part of ours.