Antonio Giovinazzi, at Ferrari’s sister team, Alfa Romeo, is another possibility, and Lewis Hamilton has yet to sign for 2021 – but has said that he’s happy at Mercedes.
An outside bet is Fernando Alonso, who has been eyeing a return to Formula 1. Last week, he said that his plans for 2021 are “more or less” confirmed.
Vettel’s options for a top-level drive are unclear. Depending on his successor, seats may open up at McLaren or Renault.
“What’s been happening in these past few months has led many of us to reflect on what are our real priorities in life,” he said. “One needs to use one’s imagination and to adopt a new approach to a situation that has changed. I myself will take the time I need to reflect on what really matters when it comes to my future.
“Scuderia Ferrari occupies a special place in Formula 1 and I hope it gets all the success it deserves. Finally, I want to thank the whole Ferrari family and above all its “tifosi” all around the world, for the support they have given me over the years. My immediate goal is to finish my long stint with Ferrari, in the hope of sharing some more beautiful moments together, to add to all those we have enjoyed so far.”
Since joining Ferrari in 2015, Vettel has scored 14 race victories however has not been able to achieve a fifth world championship with the team.
Ferrari team principal Mattia Binotto said that both parties realised that their futures did not lie together.
“This is a decision taken jointly by ourselves and Sebastian, one which both parties feel is for the best,” he said.
