Sebastian Vettel asserts that he is feeling “happy” for Fernando Alonso amid Aston Martin’s successful start to the 2023 Formula 1 campaign.
Vettel opted to retire from F1 at the end of the 2022 season following two years with Aston Martin – however his stint was largely spent in the thick of the midfield pack.
Alonso replaced Vettel at the Silverstone-based team for 2023 and has enjoyed a monumental start to life at Aston Martin as the squad has taken a sizeable step forward.
After the first three rounds, he has taken a trio of podium results to mark his most successful start to an F1 campaign since 2007.
“I’m happy for him,” Vettel said, speaking at an event for Bio Bienen Apfel. “I think there were actually many years where he didn’t have a good car, and yes, now he’s living that second spring or honeymoon.”
Vettel had a famous rivalry with Alonso when they battled for the F1 titles in 2010 and 2012 – with the former coming out on top on both occasions.
20.11.2022. Formula 1 World Championship, Rd 22, Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, Yas Marina Circuit, Abu Dhabi, Race Day.
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After his successful years at Red Bull, Vettel competed for Ferrari for several years before spending his final two seasons with Aston Martin.
Some might suggest that Vettel is feeling regret over his decision to leave due to the pace of the AMR23 this year.
However, the four-time World Champion asserts that it is not the case.
“I think it’s very difficult to know what will happen next year,” he said when asked if he could return.
“I don’t regret [leaving F1]. The first thing, of course, is joy, which is more important than anything else.
“I know the team very well from the last few years and I’m happy that they are doing so well.
“That 2023 was going to be a better year than last season I think was obvious, because last year was pretty bad, so it was expected.
“Of course, you never know what the others are doing, but it was going to be better.
“But no matter what’s happening now, I thought it through and made my decision, regardless of how things might have gone this year.”
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