Former Formula One world champion hints at sensational return

This would be amazing

Sebastian Vettel retired from the sport in 2022 as a four-time world champion with Red Bull, finishing his career at Aston Martin.

But with Lewis Hamilton moving to Ferrari ahead of the 2025 season, Mercedes are on the lookout for a new driver to partner up alongside George Russell.

The 36-year-old has reportedly been in conversation with a number of team bosses on the grid, including Toto Wolff, and hinted that he may be ready to get behind the wheel again.

"I am speaking to Toto. I don't know if that qualifies as Mercedes, but about other things," the German told Sky Sports News.

"I'm talking to a lot of people because I know them, but not very specific. I mean obviously it does cross my mind, I do think about it, but it's not the main thought.

"I have three kids at home, it's busy every day, so there's a lot of other thoughts I have. There's ideas that I have.

"Events that I'm planning going forwards, so I did speak to a lot of other team principals as well, and not only about racing. There's thoughts, but nothing concrete at the minute."

Vettel shocked by Hamilton decision

Hamilton's decision to leave Mercedes has been one of the biggest talking points in F1 in recent months.

Given that the Englishman has been with Mercedes ever since he first took made his name in the sport - starting at Maclaren before moving up the ranking - the seven-time world champion's fresh start caught many out, including Vettel.

He said: "I was surprised, like I guess most of us were.

"But it is exciting. Obviously he's looking for a new challenge and it will be different to see him in red, in a different colour."

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