Ralf Schumacher: ‘F1 top brass are happy to see Sebastian Vettel leave uncomfortably’

Ralf Schumacher thinks some in Formula 1 would have been “happy” to hear the outspoken Sebastian Vettel announce his retirement from the sport.

After all, he’s not afraid to speak directly about F1’s ‘problems’.

Vettel announced ahead of Hungarian Grand Prix weekend this season will be his lastending a career that began in 2007, with four world titles and 53 Grand Prix victories.

One of the most successful drivers to ever race in Formula 1, the 35-year-old has used his platform in recent years to advocate for climate change, LGBTQ rights and even weighed in on global politics when he appeared on BBC One. Question time.

Convinced that Formula 1 must do more to combat climate change, the driver recently put a demonstration carried out in the Williams of Nigel Mansell, winner of the championship in 1992, using carbon neutral fuels.

As such, Schumacher reckons some of F1’s top brass won’t mind seeing the former four-time world champion’s back.

Sebastian Vettel was asked about the driver he wanted to replace at Aston Martin.

You already know the answer ? #F1https://t.co/A6uNFCJqiV

– PlanetF1 (@Planet_F1) July 29, 2022

motorsport-total.com quote him as saying to Sky Germany “internally in Formula 1 some are now happy he’s gone, especially [F1 CEO Stefano] Domenicali and co, because he addressed all the issues directly, so partly was very uncomfortable, but rightly so”.

Schumacher personally, however, is sad to see his compatriot go as he always appreciated “his way [and] his smile when things are going well, and that snotty face when things are not going well – but at least it’s a sign of his honesty”.

But while Vettel’s decision came as a surprise to many, except it looks like Sky Sports’ Ted KravitzSchumacher also says he was “not” shocked to learn of Vettel’s retirement.

“I had noticed it a little before,” he said.

“The problem is simple: if you don’t make it and the family is waiting at home, there’s simply no reason for a man in their place or a driver.”

And Vettel, it’s fair to say, hasn’t been successful lately.

He last won a Grand Prix in 2019, at the Singapore race, while this season his best result was sixth in the Azerbaijan Grand Prix.

Vettel, however, cited his desire to spend more time with his family as the main reason for leaving, which Schumacher says he understands.

“It was also difficult for me to leave my family at home, my wife, my son,” says the former driver.

“In fact, I asked myself more and more often, why are you doing this to yourself?” Why aren’t you at home? Why not enjoy the sunrise or sunset with the family? You can just play skating with your friends or go bowling.

He added: “At some point the relationship slipped and then I was no longer happy and made the decision to quit.”