The Christian Horner controversy is still looming over F1 and the paddock. It even overshadowed the livery reveals in February and the start of the 2024 season, to some extent. Sebastian Vettel, who won 4 championships for Red Bull, under the British Team Principal, called for complete “transparency” on the matter. Within a matter of a few days, the German has yet again addressed the “slippery slope” that the entire case has caused.
Despite winning 3 consecutive World Championships, Red Bull is under threat of collapsing internally. Max Verstappen’s father, Jos Verstappen, even confirmed a ‘power struggle’ within the Austrian team. While the roots of this entire uncertainty can be traced to the Horner investigation, Sky Sports’ Craig Slater was spotted in a recent discussion on it. Addressing these ongoing stances, he asked Vettel if F1 and FIA could’ve brought more transparency.
“The fact that we are still talking about it, probably yes,” Vettel told Sky Sports, adding, “But I don’t know enough details and I think it’s a very difficult one. When you don’t know everything, then it’s hard to make or draw a conclusion. I understand that you want to respect private matters as well, with the involved individuals. So it’s a slippery slope. But I think in the big picture, you have a certain responsibility to explain to the audience what’s exactly going on to then be able to draw the right conclusions.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
“If things were a bit more clear for everyone, then it would be easier to make a judgment,” he claimed. The 4-time champion handled the query in a short and smart take, but for a change, the question he didn’t handle diplomatically was on his comeback.
Sebastian Vettel Drops Major Hint at F1 Comeback
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
When retired drivers, who are still fit to make a comeback into Formula 1, are asked about that potential return, the answer is usually along the lines of ‘never say never’ and ‘I don’t know’. But when Sebastian Vettel was asked this by Sky Sports, he snuck in a small detail, hoping to let the team principals know that he is interested in a possible return.
“Well, potentially I am (on the driver market) because I haven’t got a drive, but the question is, am I looking for one? I think it depends on the package,” the German driver said, hinting that he is waiting for the right offer and team. “I retired from Formula 1 not to come back, but I also did say that you never know. So I think it still stands.”
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Though it is now nearly confirmed that Toto Wolff is signing Kimi Antonelli for Mercedes, what lay ahead for him is something only time will say. Can Vettel play spoilsport for the 17-year-old? What are your thoughts on the potential surrounding his future endeavors?