Sebastian Vettel has admitted he considered leaving Formula 1 this season following the sport’s decision to switch from V8 engines to hybrid-V6 power units.
The four-time champion had been one of the most vocal about the change prior to 2014, citing the lack of noise as a major threat to the sport.
However he chose to continue with few alternative options available to him and he still believes F1 remains the pinnacle of motorsport, despite the change of engine formula.
“Of course, you think about everything,” the 27-year-old told Auto Motor und Sport in an interview.
“Suddenly you have two cylinders missing and you do not restart the car but a computer reboots it, then you ask yourself ‘what has this to do with racing.
“[But] what is the alternative? The cars have become slower but are still the fastest out there.”
Whilst he might not have quit F1, the German is making changes after quitting Red Bull for what many believe will be Ferrari – a move which is expected to be confirmed next weekend.
“I am hoping, of course, to announce what is happening soon but right now we have to be patient,” he added, though he dropped a hint that his car won’t be Mercedes powered, leaving few competitive options.
“I am aware that before me is a big task that will take time especially at a time when Mercedes has a huge competitive advantage.
“It is a step into the unknown, therefore a risk,” added Vettel. “If I was not convinced I could be successful there, I would not have dared.”
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