Marko does not definitively rule out Vettel's return to Red Bull

Sebastian Vettel leaves Ferrari at the end of the year and it is still unclear what the German will do. Does he stop definitively? Will he join a smaller team or will he take a break? Time will tell, but Helmut Marko - who has worked a lot with Vettel - says it would be a loss if the German leaves permanently.

Not surprised

Talking to Autobild, Helmut Marko says he is not really surprised by Vettel's decision: "Not really, it has become clear over the last few months. I think that somehow he has lost confidence in Ferrari." What's that about? That's a bit of a question. Leclerc might be a factor.

"Not just because he's such a great talent. I think there was a lot of politics around Leclerc and Vettel doesn't like that. He wants to get on the gas, win and not waste energy on unnecessary team politics. I hope Ferrari gives him a chance to show off his skills in the last season."

Loss of Vettel

Marko would in any case be sorry if the German stopped in the sport: "Seriously: Of course it would be a huge loss. Just the rumours that he could drive next to Hamilton at Mercedes in 2021 caused an earthquake in the media. That says it all."

"I'm just afraid that Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff doesn't want this duel of the century. Then Sebastian will have to take a year off and weigh his chances before 2022." But isn't a return to Red Bull Racing an interesting option? Something Marko laughs at according to Autobild, but he doesn't at all - if we read between the lines - rule it out.

"We have contracts with Max Verstappen and Alexander Albon. That's where things stand right now. But in Formula 1 something can always change. After this season, when it ends like this, we will know more." So it's certainly not out of the question, but Marko doesn't express a wish either. In short, we'll have to wait and see.