Four-times world champion Sebastian Vettel said there was more to life than “racing in circles” as he brought the curtain down on his Formula One career with a points-scoring finish in Sunday’s season-ending Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
Vettel’s impending retirement had triggered an outpouring of affection for the former Red Bull and Ferrari driver. The tributes have flooded in, with the German’s stand on social issues and the environment and his conduct with rivals, peers, colleagues and fans endearing him to many.
“I don’t have that much more to say, I feel a bit empty, to be honest,” said Vettel.
“So many flags, so many smiling faces, which has been very, very special, very nice and I’m sure I’m going to miss more than I understand right now.”
Vettel called on the next generation of drivers to pick up where he left off.
“There’s far bigger and far more important things than racing in circles,” he said.
“But obviously it’s what we love and through that if we can transfer some of the really important values, that’s big.
“So I hope to pass on a little bit to the other drivers to carry on some of the good work.”
