Earlier this year, Sebastian Vettel announced he would be retiring from F1 at the end of this season. Since then, it has been a series of goodbye races for him from circuit to circuit. And while the world has been reeling from this news, some have held out hope for the Lion of Singapore’s return to F1.

Vettel announced his decision to retire, claiming he wished for more time and space to himself and with his family.

Sebastian Vettel can make a comeback to F1 in 2026

In a recent turn of events, the F1 community has perked up with the possibility of his Schumacher-esque return. A few days ago, Audi finally broke the news that they will enter F1 with the Sauber team in 2026. Sauber will forego its Ferrari engines in favor of Audi ones.

With this new development, the F1 community has clamored for Sebastian Vettel’s return with Audi as an all-German team. To have such news right around the corner of Vettel’s retirement, it seems to be a match made in heaven, right?

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F1 Insider’s chief editors Bianca Garloff and Ralf Bach agree in a recent speculative interview where they discuss Audi’s future in F1.

“A collaboration with Sebastian Vettel, Nick Heidfeld, or Timo Glock is also a must,” said Ralf Back towards the end of the discussion.

“All three were regular or test drivers at BMW-Sauber and know the team in Hinwil like the back of their hand. They could act as consultants, development drivers, or junior coaches.”

“Vettel would theoretically still be young enough in 2026 at the age of 39 to celebrate a comeback – like his idol Michael Schumacher once did at Mercedes.” (translated using Google)

Dream German Comeback Feat. Sebastian Vettel Demanded as Sauber Confirms Partnership With Audi From 2026: “It’s Time”

The chief editor makes a very valid and tempting point. It would be truly legendary to see the well-loved Sebastian Vettel make a comeback in Michael Schumacher’s style.

Retirement getting a little more real for Sebastian Vettel

While speculations about Sebastian Vettel‘s impending future loom, the man himself has kept his future plans concealed. Other than his upcoming appearance in the Race of Champions in 2023, Vettel has not revealed any other plans yet.

However, his retirement grows closer and closer to reality. And it is something the German driver cannot ignore.

As Vettel said before the US Grand Prix, “It is getting a little bit more real.” 

“At Suzuka, I was a bit sad after qualifying and Sunday was a little bit up and down and mixed emotions because the race was so different. It’s a special place and I will miss it,” admitted the Aston Martin driver.

WATCH THIS STORY: Lewis Hamilton & Fernando Alonso Are the Last Men Standing As Sebastian Vettel Exit Marks the End of Iconic F1 Era

Sebastian Vettel is understandably emotional about the finality of his races this season now. Does this mean he will have a change of heart about returning in the future? Only time will tell.