Sebastian Vettel has been told not to make a Formula 1 comeback as the four-time world champion takes on a new role.
The German driver retired from F1 at the end of the 2022 season, completing his career with Aston Martin after Vettel was unable to claim a fifth world title at Ferrari.
In the latter stages of his career, Vettel became increasingly concerned with the world outside of motorsport, campaigning about a series of issues from environmental to social.
Since retirement, Vettel has implemented some of his environmental strategies to the racetrack, including a bee sanctuary at Suzuka, the home of the Japanese Grand Prix.
Sebastian Vettel has an incredible F1 legacySebastian Vettel introduced his 'bee hotel' in 2023
Will Vettel make an F1 return?
Vettel’s exit from F1 felt rather premature at 35 years of age, whilst his former rivals, Lewis Hamilton and Fernando Alonso, have continued to race well into their 40s.
Following Audi’s takeover of Sauber and their entry into F1 for 2026, there was speculation Vettel could join the German manufacturer.
However, Vettel remains preoccupied with another endeavour instead of making a comeback to the sport, with the champion studying in Switzerland for his agricultural degree.
In spring 2025, Vettel will have to take two more exams before he can officially call himself a farmer, but has revealed the impetus for starting the project and its links to his climate activism.
"I am fascinated by the potential in agriculture, also for the climate, for the changes and challenges that we all face,” Vettel said on his new project.
David Coulthard urges Sebastian Vettel not to make a F1 comeback
Whether Vettel stages a comeback following the conclusion of his degree is another matter, but former Red Bull driver David Coulthard delivered a brutal verdict on whether the champion should return to F1.
"He should give it up and stop dreaming that he will be faster after taking a few years off,” Coulthard said in a YouTube video with Lucas Stewart.