Formula 1: 5 possible landing spots for Sebastian Vettel in 2021
By Asher Fair
Sebastian Vettel possible landing spots: Alfa Romeo Racing
The last time a driver was replaced at Ferrari, he ended up at the Ferrari-powered Alfa Romeo Racing. That driver, Kimi Raikkonen, is slated to return for a second year at the Swiss team in 2020.
Alfa Romeo Racing have a deal with Ferrari that includes the right for Ferrari to select one of Alfa Romeo Racing’s two drivers each season. While Raikkonen joined the team when Charles Leclerc left to replace him at Ferrari, he was technically not Ferrari’s selection like Leclerc was when he drove for the team, then Alfa Romeo Sauber, in the 2018 season.
Vettel would almost assuredly have to be Ferrari’s selection with the team, and for one reason: his age.
It makes sense. It’s not like Vettel is 45 years old and washed up, in the twilight years of his career. Yes, he has struggled as of late, but perhaps he needs change of scenery to regain his footing after three consecutive (possibly four after 2020) seasons full of struggles.
He is still only 32, and that could potentially lead to a second Ferrari stint; let’s not forget the fact that he is a four-time world champion.
With all things considered, it is highly unlikely that both Alfa Romeo Racing drivers, Raikkonen and Antonio Giovinazzi, Ferrari’s selection for the team, will be back with the team in the 2021 season. Raikkonen has even been rumored to retire; he is slated to break the all-time starts record in 2021.
Either way, there will almost assuredly be an opening with the team in 2021. Should Vettel seek additional opportunities in Formula 1, this may make sense.