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{{short description|German racing driver}} {{Short description|German racing driver (born 1987)}}
{{EngvarB|date=February 2019}} {{EngvarB|date=February 2019}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=February 2019}} {{Use dmy dates|date=July 2023}}
{{Infobox F1 driver {{Infobox person
|name = Sebastian Vettel | name = Sebastian Vettel
|image = Sebastian Vettel 2017 Malaysia 2.jpg | image = Sebastian Vettel 2012 Bahrain GP.jpg
| caption = Vettel at the ]
|image size =
| birth_date = {{birth date and age|1987|07|03|df=y}}
|caption = Vettel at the ]
| birth_place = ], ], ]
|nationality = {{flagd|GER}} German
|birth_date = {{birth date and age|1987|07|03|df=y}} | spouse = {{marriage|Hanna Prater|2019}}
| children = 3
|birth_place = ], ]
| relatives = ] (brother)
<!-- Please leave the 2019 team in the infobox until at least 1 January 2020, per WP:F1 convention -->
| signature = Tanda Tangan Sebastian Vettel.svg
|current_team = ]
| signature_alt = Sebastian Vettel signature
|car_number = 5
| website =
|races = {{F1stat|VET|entries}} ({{F1stat|VET|starts}} starts)
| module =
|championships = 4 ({{F1|2010}}, {{F1|2011}}, {{F1|2012}}, {{F1|2013}})
{{Infobox F1 driver|embed=yes
|wins = ]
| nationality = {{flagicon|GER}} ]
|podiums = {{F1stat|VET|podiums}}
| car_number = 5<br>1 ({{F1|2014}}){{efn|Vettel competed using the number 1 during his World Drivers' Championship defence in {{F1|2014}}.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.cnn.com/2014/01/13/sport/motorsport/sebastian-vettel-number-one-f1-motorsport | title=Formula One unveils driver numbers for 2014 season | website=] | date=13 January 2014 | access-date=25 October 2022 | archive-date=25 October 2022 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221025153527/https://www.cnn.com/2014/01/13/sport/motorsport/sebastian-vettel-number-one-f1-motorsport | url-status=live }}</ref>}}
|points = {{F1stat|VET|careerpoints}}
|poles = {{F1stat|VET|poles}} | Years = {{F1|2007}}–{{F1|2022}}
| Teams = ], ], ], ], ]
|fastest_laps = {{F1stat|VET|fastestlaps}}
| Engines = ], ], ], ]
|first_race = ]
| races = 300 (299 starts)
|first_win = ]
| championships = 4 ({{F1|2010}}, {{F1|2011}}, {{F1|2012}}, {{F1|2013}})
|last_win = ]
|last_race = {{Latest F1GP}} | wins = 53
|last_season = 2018 | podiums = 122
| points = 3098
|last_position = 2nd (320 pts)
|signature = Tanda Tangan Sebastian Vettel.svg | poles = 57
| fastest_laps = 38
| first_race = ]
| first_win = ]
| last_win = ]
| last_race = ]
}} }}
| module2 =
{{infobox racing driver|embed=yes
| prev series = {{plainlist|
* ]
* ]
* ]
}}
| prev series years = {{plainlist|
* ]–]
* ]–]
* ]–]
}}
| titles = ]
| title years = ]
| awards =
| award years =
| medaltemplates =
{{MedalSport|]}}
{{MedalCountry|{{GER}}}}
<!--{{MedalCount|total=yes|]|9|1|–}}-->
{{MedalCompetition|]}}
{{Medal|W|]|]}}
{{Medal|W|]|]}}
{{Medal|W|]|]}}
{{Medal|W|]|]}}
{{Medal|W|]|]}}
{{Medal|W|]|]}}
{{Medal|W|]|]}}
{{Medal|W|]|]}}
{{Medal|RU|]|]}}
{{Medal|G|]|]}}
}}
}}

'''Sebastian Vettel''' ({{IPA|de|zeˈbasti̯a(ː)n ˈfɛtl̩|-|De-Sebastian Vettel.ogg}}; born 3 July 1987) is a German ], who most recently competed in ] from {{F1|2007}} to {{F1|2022}}. Vettel won four ], which he won consecutively from {{F1|2010}} to {{F1|2013}} with ], and remains the ]; he won 53 ] across 16 seasons.

Born and raised in ], Vettel began competitive ] aged eight. After a successful karting career—culminating in his victory at the ] ] in 2001—Vettel graduated to ]. He started his career in ], dominating the championship in ] with 18 wins from 20 races. Vettel then progressed to the ] in ], taking several victories and finishing runner-up to ] the ]. A ] for ] since {{F1|2006}}, Vettel made his Formula One debut at the ]. Vettel replaced ] at ] after the {{F1GP|2007|European}} for the remainder of the {{F1|2007}} season, as part of the ]. Retaining his seat for {{F1|2008}}, Vettel achieved his maiden ] and victory at the {{F1GP|2008|Italian}} to become the ]. Vettel was promoted to parent team ] in {{F1|2009}}, taking several wins as he finished runner-up to ] in the ].


After winning the title-deciding {{F1GP|2010|Abu Dhabi}} in {{F1|2010}}, Vettel became the ], aged 23. Vettel won his second and third championships in {{F1|2011}} and {{F1|2012}}, dominating the former and winning the latter amidst a close title battle with ]. Vettel set several records in {{F1|2013}}, winning 13 Grands Prix—including a ] nine consecutive victories—to claim his fourth consecutive title with Red Bull. After a winless {{F1|2014}} campaign, Vettel signed for ], replacing Alonso to partner ]; he took several wins in his ], finishing third in the standings. Following another winless season in {{F1|2016}}, Vettel emerged as the closest challenger to ] and ], finishing runner-up in {{F1|2017}} and {{F1|2018}} after achieving several victories across both campaigns. Partnered by ] for {{F1|2019}}, Vettel took his final win for Ferrari at the {{F1GP|2019|Singapore}} before leaving the team at the end of the {{F1|2020}} season. Vettel joined the recently-established ] in {{F1|2021}}, where he scored his final podium finish at the {{F1GP|2021|Azerbaijan}}.
'''Sebastian Vettel''' ({{IPA-de|zeˈbasti̯an ˈfɛtl̩}}; born 3 July 1987)<ref name="F1 profile">{{cite web|url=http://www.formula1.com/teams_and_drivers/drivers/822/|title=Sebastian Vettel|work=Formula1.com|publisher=]|accessdate=2 December 2012}}</ref> is a ] who races in ] for ]. He is a four-time Formula One World Champion, having won consecutive titles from {{f1|2010}}–{{f1|2013}} with ],<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.fia.com/news/vettel-beyond-reach-india|title=Vettel beyond reach in India|date=27 October 2013|publisher= Federation Internationale de l&#039;Automobile|accessdate=29 October 2013}}</ref> and is regarded by many as one of the greatest drivers in the history of the sport.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2013/oct/26/sebastian-vettel-f1-champion-indian-grand-prix|title=Vettel, the F1 champion|work=Guardian|access-date=12 May 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/formula1/19487080|title=Formula 1's greatest drivers. Number 8: Sebastian Vettel|website=BBC}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=F1's Greatest Drivers|url=http://f1greatestdrivers.autosport.com/?driver=26|website=autosport.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://fivethirtyeight.com/features/formula-one-racing/|title=Who’s The Best Formula One Driver Of All Time?|last=Moore|first=Justin|date=2018-05-25|website=FiveThirtyEight|language=en-US|access-date=2019-04-01}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/24691202|title=Sebastian Vettel - without doubt an all-time F1 great|date=2013-10-27|access-date=2019-04-01|language=en-GB}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.news.com.au/sport/motorsport/bernie-ecclestone-believes-reigning-f1-world-champion-sebastian-vettel-is-the-greatest-of-all-time/news-story/11c1dbd297f0cb094cb2e2a50f00aa4a?from=public_rss|title=Bernie Ecclestone says reigning F1 world champion Sebastian Vettel is the greatest of all time|website=www.news.com.au|access-date=2019-04-03}}</ref> Vettel moved to Ferrari for the {{F1|2015}} season, and is contracted to stay with the team until the end of 2020.<ref name="Welcome Sebastian">{{cite news|url=http://formula1.ferrari.com/news/sebastian-vettel-raikkonen-2015|title=Welcome Sebastian|work=]|access-date=20 November 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://formula1.ferrari.com/en/extension-of-the-agreement-between-scuderia-ferrari-and-sebastian-vettel/|title=Extension of agreement between Scuderia Ferrari and Sebastian Vettel|publisher='']''|date=26 August 2017|accessdate=26 August 2017}}</ref> In addition to holding a number of 'youngest' records in Formula One, Vettel holds the record for the ] (9), as well as accumulating the third most ] ({{F1stat|VET|wins}}) and ] ({{F1stat|VET|podiums}}), and the fourth-most ] ({{F1stat|VET|poles}}).<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.statsf1.com/en/statistiques/pilote/victoire/nombre.aspx|title=Statistics drivers – Wins by number|publisher=Stats F1|accessdate=29 March 2015}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.statsf1.com/en/statistiques/pilote/podium/nombre.aspx|title=Statistics Drivers - Podiums - By number • STATS F1|last=|first=|date=|website=www.statsf1.com|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=8 February 2019}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.statsf1.com/en/statistiques/pilote/pole/nombre.aspx|title=Statistics Drivers - Pole positions - By number • STATS F1|last=|first=|date=|website=www.statsf1.com|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=8 February 2019}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.statsf1.com/en/statistiques/pilote/victoire/consecutive.aspx|title=Wins - Consecutively|last=|first=|date=|website=Stats F1|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=12 January 2019}}</ref>


Vettel retired at the end of the {{F1|2022}} season, having achieved the fourth-most ] (53), fourth-most ] (57), fifth-most ] (38), and third-most ] (122) in Formula One. Vettel won the ] in ], further winning the ] six consecutive times from ] to ] alongside ], representing Germany. He is also a prominent ] and ]; since 2023, he has been co-owner of the Germany ] Team.
Vettel started his Formula One career as a test driver for ] in {{f1|2006}} and made his racing debut with the team at the ], replacing the injured ].<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/motorsport/formula_one/6761857.stm|title=Superb Hamilton takes US victory|last=|first=|date=17 June 2007|work=|access-date=8 February 2019|language=en-GB}}</ref> Already part of the Red Bull programme, Vettel joined ] later in the season, and was kept as a driver for {{F1|2008}}.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.racefans.net/sebastian-vettel/#tororosso|title=Sebastian Vettel|last=|first=|date=|website=www.racefans.net|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=8 February 2019}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/61270/vettel-to-race-for-toro-rosso-in-2008|title=Vettel to race for Toro Rosso in 2008 - F1 - Autosport|last=|first=|date=|website=Autosport.com|language=en|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=8 February 2019}}</ref> In his first full season in Formula One, the 21-year-old became the youngest pole-sitter and race winner at the ], although the latter record was broken by ] in 2016.<ref>{{cite news|title = Vettel makes history with Italian Grand Prix win| publisher = The Sports Network| url = https://www.tsn.ca/auto_racing/story/?id=249484&lid=headline&lpos=topStory_main| date = 14 September 2008| accessdate =14 September 2008}}{{cite news|title =Vettel makes history in taking pole at Italian Grand Prix| publisher = The Sports Network| url = https://www.tsn.ca/auto_racing/story/?id=249341&lid=headline&lpos=secStory_main| date = 13 September 2008| accessdate =13 September 2008}}</ref> Vettel was promoted to Red Bull for the {{f1|2009}} season, during which he won four races en route to becoming the youngest-ever World Drivers' Championship runner-up.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.sportskeeda.com/f1/sebastian-vettels-top-5-races/|title=Sebastian Vettel's top 5 races|last=|first=|date=24 July 2014|website=www.sportskeeda.com|language=en|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=8 February 2019}}</ref>


{{TOC limit|3}}
The following year, Vettel became the youngest driver ever to win the World Drivers' Championship,<ref name=":8">{{Cite web|url=https://www.statsf1.com/en/statistiques/pilote/champion/age.aspx|title=Statistics Drivers - World Champion titles - By age • STATS F1|last=|first=|date=|website=www.statsf1.com|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=8 February 2019}}</ref> also helping Red Bull win their first ].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.statsf1.com/en/statistiques/constructeur/champion/nombre.aspx|title=Statistics Constructors - World Champion titles - By number • STATS F1|last=|first=|date=|website=www.statsf1.com|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=8 February 2019}}</ref> He followed up his first championship with three more titles in succession, becoming the youngest double, triple and quadruple world champion in Formula One.<ref name=":8" /><ref name="BBCBazGP2012"/> The {{f1|2010}} and {{f1|2012}} titles were decided in the final round; topping a four-way title battle in ] in 2010, and beating ] by three points in 2012,<ref name="BBCBazGP2012" /><ref>{{Cite news|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/motorsport/formula_one/9188023.stm|title=Vettel win seals maiden F1 title|last=|first=|date=14 November 2010|work=|access-date=8 February 2019|language=en-GB}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.statsf1.com/en/2010.aspx|title=2010 • STATS F1|last=|first=|date=|website=www.statsf1.com|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=8 February 2019}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.statsf1.com/en/2012.aspx|title=2012 • STATS F1|last=|first=|date=|website=www.statsf1.com|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=8 February 2019}}</ref> while the {{f1|2011}} and {{f1|2013}} titles saw Vettel dominating the seasons to secure the titles early.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2011/oct/09/sebastian-vettel-wins-world-title|title=Sebastian Vettel secures back-to-back F1 world titles in Japan|last=Richards|first=Giles|date=9 October 2011|work=The Guardian|access-date=8 February 2019|language=en-GB|issn=0261-3077}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/24691160|title=Sebastian Vettel wins fourth F1 world title at the Indian GP|last=|first=|date=27 October 2013|work=|access-date=8 February 2019|language=en-GB}}</ref> Ending his long-term association with the team, Vettel activated a clause to end his contract with Red Bull at the end of the {{f1|2014}} season.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/116150|first=Jonathan|last=Noble|title=Sebastian Vettel in Ferrari frame after announcing Red Bull exit|publisher=Autosport|date=4 October 2014|accessdate=23 March 2015}}</ref>


==Early life==
Soon after, it was announced that Vettel had signed a three-year contract with Ferrari for the {{f1|2015}} season.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/30128844|title=Sebastian Vettel: German joins Ferrari as Fernando Alonso exits|last=|first=|date=20 November 2014|work=]|access-date=8 February 2019|language=en-GB}}</ref> In his first season with Ferrari, Vettel won three races and was the closest challenger to the ] drivers.<ref name=":9" /><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.statsf1.com/en/2015.aspx|title=2015 • STATS F1|last=|first=|date=|website=www.statsf1.com|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=8 February 2019}}</ref> The next year however, he finished fourth in the {{f1|2016}} championship in another winless season.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.statsf1.com/en/2016.aspx|title=2016 • STATS F1|last=|first=|date=|website=www.statsf1.com|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=8 February 2019}}</ref> Vettel and Ferrari enjoyed a resurgence in {{f1|2017}} and {{f1|2018}}, winning a number of races and topping the standings a number of times in close World Championship battles with ].<ref name=":9" /><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.statsf1.com/en/2017.aspx|title=2017 • STATS F1|last=|first=|date=|website=www.statsf1.com|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=8 February 2019}}</ref> However, both years saw his title hopes ended in ] as he finished both seasons as runner-up.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.statsf1.com/en/sebastian-vettel/grand-prix.aspx|title=Sebastian VETTEL - Grands Prix started • STATS F1|last=|first=|date=|website=www.statsf1.com|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=8 February 2019}}</ref><ref name=":10">{{Cite web|url=https://www.statsf1.com/en/statistiques/gp/decisif/pilote.aspx|title=Statistics Grands Prix - Decisive - Drivers • STATS F1|last=|first=|date=|website=www.statsf1.com|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=8 February 2019}}</ref><ref name=":9" /><ref name=":10" />
Vettel was born on 3 July 1987 in ], West Germany,<ref name=":8">{{Cite web|title=Sebastian Vettel|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/drivers/sebastian-vettel.html|access-date=9 August 2020|website=Formula 1|archive-date=23 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210723144619/https://www.formula1.com/en/drivers/sebastian-vettel.html|url-status=dead}}</ref> to Norbert and Heike Vettel. He has one younger brother, ], a racing driver, and two older sisters: Melanie, a dental technician, and Stefanie, a physiotherapist for children with disabilities.<ref name="vettel">{{cite news|last=Ross|first=Rory|title=Sebastian Vettel interview|url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/motorsport/formulaone/8359267/Sebastian-Vettel-interview.html |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20220110/https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/motorsport/formulaone/8359267/Sebastian-Vettel-interview.html |archive-date=10 January 2022 |url-access=subscription |url-status=live|work=The Daily Telegraph|date=4 March 2011|access-date=11 August 2020}}{{cbignore}}</ref> Vettel suggested in an interview that he was "terrible" at school, but he passed his '']'' at Heppenheim's {{ill|Starkenburg-Gymnasium|de}} with a respectable grade.<ref>{{cite news|last=Schneider|first=Frank|title=British Grand Prix 2011: revealed – the real Sebastian Vettel|url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/motorsport/formulaone/8619039/British-Grand-Prix-2011-revealed-the-real-Sebastian-Vettel.html |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20220110/https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/motorsport/formulaone/8619039/British-Grand-Prix-2011-revealed-the-real-Sebastian-Vettel.html |archive-date=10 January 2022 |url-access=subscription |url-status=live|work=The Telegraph|access-date=15 January 2014|date=8 July 2011}}{{cbignore}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|date=7 October 2011|title=Sebastian Vettel|url=http://www.starkenburg-gymnasium.de/2011/10/07/sebastian-vettel/|access-date=11 August 2020|website=Das Starkenburg-Gymnasium|language=de|archive-date=25 September 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200925095644/http://www.starkenburg-gymnasium.de/2011/10/07/sebastian-vettel/|url-status=dead}}</ref> His childhood heroes were "The three Michaels": ], ] and ]. He mentioned that he wanted to be a singer like Jackson, but realised that he did not have the voice.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Searle|first=Fred|date=7 November 2013|title=Vettel: Formula 1's undervalued whizz kid|url=https://www.thelocal.de/20131107/vettel|access-date=11 August 2020|website=The Local|archive-date=15 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201115153343/https://www.thelocal.de/20131107/vettel|url-status=live}}</ref> Vettel is also a fan of ], collecting several records, including '']'' and his favourite song being "]". In an interview on '']'', he stated that he is a fan of British comedy such as '']'' and '']''.
==Junior racing career==


===Karting===
==Early and personal life==
Vettel began ] at the age of three, and began racing in karts series in 1995 at the age of eight. He was accepted into the ] in 1998,<ref>{{Cite web|last=Masefield|first=Fraser|date=7 November 2013|title=Why 8 November 2005 Was the Day Red Bull Became Major Players|url=https://bleacherreport.com/articles/1839692-why-8-november-2005-was-day-red-bull-became-major-players|access-date=11 August 2020|website=Bleacher Report|archive-date=31 January 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230131031836/https://bleacherreport.com/articles/1839692-why-8-november-2005-was-day-red-bull-became-major-players|url-status=live}}</ref> and won various titles, such as the ] in 2001.
Vettel was born in ], then ],<ref name="F1 profile"/> to Norbert and Heike Vettel. He has one younger brother, Fabian, and two older sisters: Melanie, a dental technician, and Stefanie, a physiotherapist for disabled children.<ref name=vettel>{{cite news|last=Ross|first=Rory|title=Sebastian Vettel interview|url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/motorsport/formulaone/8359267/Sebastian-Vettel-interview.html|work=]|date=4 March 2011|location=London}}</ref> Vettel suggested in an interview that he was terrible at school, but he passed his ] at Heppenheimth's ] (academic secondary school)<ref>{{cite news|last=Schneider|first=Frank|title=British Grand Prix 2011: revealed &nbsp;– the real Sebastian Vettel|url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/motorsport/formulaone/8619039/British-Grand-Prix-2011-revealed-the-real-Sebastian-Vettel.html|work=The Telegraph|publisher=Telegraph Media Group Limited|accessdate=15 January 2014|location=London|date=8 July 2011}}</ref> with a respectable grade.<ref>{{cite web|title=Heldenverehrung: Gymnasium nach Rennfahrer Sebastian Vettel benannt|url=http://www.spiegel.de/schulspiegel/abi/0,1518,579026,00.html|work=Der Spiegel|accessdate=25 September 2011}}</ref> He has said that his childhood heroes were "The three Michaels"&nbsp;– ], ], and ] and mentioned that he wanted to be a singer like Michael Jackson, but realised that he could not as he did not have the voice.<ref>{{cite news|title=The Secret Life of Sebastian Vettel|url=http://www.formula1.com/news/interviews/2010/3/10542.html|publisher=Formula One|date=17 March 2010|access-date=18 March 2010}}</ref> Vettel is also a fan of ], collecting several records, including '']'' and his favourite song being "]". In an interview on '']'', Vettel stated that he was a fan of British comedy such as '']'' and '']''. Vettel lives in ], Switzerland amongst other racing drivers and is a fan of ] team ].<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.bundesliga.com/en/news/Bundesliga/0000285705.jsp|title=Vettel: 'Fell for Eintracht Frankfurt'|date=12 February 2014|access-date=10 July 2017|work=]|publisher=]|first=Alexander|last=Dionisius}}</ref> Vettel has described himself as competitive, private, and impatient. Vettel also appeared in advertisements for ]. Vettel provided the voice of character Sebastian Schnell in the version of the movie '']'' dubbed for German-speaking audiences.


===Lower formulae===
Vettel is in a relationship with Hanna Prater, a childhood friend.<ref>{{Cite web|title = Sebastian Vettel: Popularity does not bother me – I have nothing to prove to anyone|url = https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/motorsport/formulaone/10729987/Sebastian-Vettel-Popularity-does-not-bother-me-I-have-nothing-to-prove-to-anyone.html|accessdate = 21 April 2015}}</ref> In January 2014, Vettel became a father for the first time with the birth of his daughter, Emilie.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.welt.de/sport/formel1/article122767788/Sebastian-Vettel-wird-zum-ersten-Mal-Vater.html|title=Sebastian Vettel wird zum ersten Mal Vater|date=10 December 2013|accessdate=10 December 2013|language=German|work=]|publisher=Thomas Schmid; ]|trans-title=Sebastian Vettel will be a first time father}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.formula1.com/news/interviews/2014/3/15516.html|title=Exclusive Sebastian Vettel Q&A: Right now, nothing is lost|date=1 March 2014|publisher=Formula1.com|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140301222219/http://www.formula1.com/news/interviews/2014/3/15516.html|archive-date=1 March 2014}}</ref> In September 2015, Vettel became a father for the second time with the birth of his second daughter, Matilda. In 2015, ] estimated that Vettel's annual income was $44&nbsp;million.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.forbes.com/profile/sebastian-vettel/ |title=Sebastian Vettel |work=] |year=2015 |access-date=28 April 2016 }}</ref> On the Formula One circuit, ], his Ferrari teammate for 2015 to 2018, is a close friend.<ref>{{cite web|title=Exclusive Q&A with Red Bull's Sebastian Vettel|url=http://www.formula1.com/news/interviews/2012/7/13579.html|website=Formula1.com|accessdate=23 November 2014|date=13 July 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.iltalehti.fi/formulat/2012041615456409_fo.shtml|title=Kimi hurmasi Vettelin - yksi piirre ylitse muiden|website=Iltalehti.fi|accessdate=28 November 2017|date=16 April 2012|trans-title=Kimi charmed Vettel - one of his personality traits stands out above the others<!--translated by Google Translate and bab.la<https://fi.bab.la/sanakirja/suomi-englanti/ylitse-muiden>.-->|language=Finnish}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last1=Lüttgens|first1=Markus|title=Vettel und Räikkönen: "Netter Typ" und "gerader Michel" (Vettel and Raikkonen: "Nice guy" and "straight Michel")|url=http://www.motorsport-total.com/f1/news/2013/03/Vettel_und_Raeikkoenen_Netter_Typ_und_gerader_Michel_13033002.html|website=Motorsport Total|accessdate=23 November 2014|language=German|date=30 March 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|last1=Benson|first1=Andrew|title=Sebastian Vettel: German joins Ferrari as Fernando Alonso exits|url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/0/formula1/30128844|accessdate=23 November 2014|publisher=BBC News|date=20 November 2014}}</ref> Sebastian's younger brother, Fabian is also a racing driver. He competed in the ], finishing ninth, and currently competes in ] driving for Mercedes.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.audi-mediacenter.com/en/newsflash/fabian-vettel-joins-the-audi-sport-tt-cup-line-up-7629|title=Fabian Vettel joins the Audi Sport TT Cup line-up|publisher=Audi Media Centre|accessdate=18 April 2017}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.wheels24.co.za/FormulaOne/sebastian-vettels-younger-brother-joins-mercedes-20190301|title=Sebastian Vettel's younger brother joins Mercedes|date=2019-03-01|website=Wheels|language=en|access-date=2019-04-03}}</ref>


==Early career== ====Formula BMW====
Vettel was promoted to ]s in 2003, and was given a chance by ] to test a ] ] in a two-day private test at the ].<ref name=":11" /> A year later, he won the ] championship with 18 victories from 20 races.<ref name=VettelROC/>


====Formula Three and Formula Renault====
Vettel started amateur karting at the young age of 3½ and began racing in ] series in 1995, at the age of eight. Having shown early talent, he was accepted into the ] at age 11 in 1998,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.servustv.com/cs/Satellite/Article/Der-Champion-011259461828622|title=TV Programm heute und Informationen zum Fernsehprogramm von ServusTV|work=servustv.com|accessdate=4 November 2016|deadurl=yes|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20140106042338/http://www.servustv.com/cs/Satellite/Article/Der-Champion-011259461828622|archivedate=6 January 2014}}</ref> and kept on winning various titles, such as the ] in 2001. In 2003, he was promoted to ] and won the 2004 German ] Championship with 18 victories from 20 races. Having impressed in his first season of auto racing in 2003, Vettel was given a chance by ] to test a ] ] in a two-day private test at the ].<ref name="champcar 1">{{cite web|url=http://www.formula1.com/news/headlines/2014/10/16415.html|title=FIA Thursday press conference – Japan|work=Formula1.com|publisher=]|accessdate=2 October 2014}}</ref><ref name="champcar 2">{{cite web|url=http://www.autoracing1.com/rumors.asp?tid=11843|title=Might Vettel have been an IndyCar superstar?|work=AutoRacing1.com|date=27 September 2013|accessdate=2 October 2014}}</ref>{{citation needed|date=July 2016}} In ] he drove for ] in the ]. He was placed fifth in the final standings with 63 points, winning the year's top rookie honours. He tested the ] ] automobile on 27 September as a reward for this Formula BMW success. He then went on to test for the ] team.<ref>{{cite web|title=Vettel to test Williams at Jerez|url=https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/vettel-to-test-williams-at-jerez/|website=motorsport.com|accessdate=3 January 2018|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20180103224920/https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/vettel-to-test-williams-at-jerez/|archivedate=3 January 2018|date=22 September 2005}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title='I s*** myself when I first tested an F1 car' - Vettel|url=http://en.espn.co.uk/f1/motorsport/story/130411.html|publisher=]|accessdate=3 January 2018|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20180103224917/http://en.espn.co.uk/f1/motorsport/story/130411.html|archivedate=3 January 2018|date=16 October 2013}}</ref> He drove for ] in one race of the ] in Albacete.
Vettel drove for ] in the ]. He was placed fifth in the final standings with 63 points and won the Rookie Cup. He tested for the ] team later that year as a reward for his Formula BMW success. Vettel then went on to test for the ] team.<ref>{{cite web|date=22 September 2005|title=Vettel to test Williams at Jerez|url=https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/vettel-to-test-williams-at-jerez/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180103224920/https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/vettel-to-test-williams-at-jerez/|archive-date=3 January 2018|access-date=3 January 2018|website=Motorsport.com}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|date=16 October 2013|title='I s*** myself when I first tested an F1 car' – Vettel|url=http://en.espn.co.uk/f1/motorsport/story/130411.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180103224917/http://en.espn.co.uk/f1/motorsport/story/130411.html|archive-date=3 January 2018|access-date=3 January 2018|website=ESPN}}</ref>


] demonstration event in 2006]] ] demonstration event in 2006]]
2006 became a busy year for the 18-year-old racing driver that included being promoted to test driver for BMW Sauber in Formula One. Despite a competitive season with several victories, it did not yield any championship.<ref>{{cite news| url=http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/55728 | title=Theissen regrets overloading Vettel | work=Autosport | date=21 November 2006}}</ref> Vettel finished as runner-up in his second season in the F3 Euroseries, behind series leader and teammate ]. He also made his debut in the ] at ], where he was promoted to second,<ref>{{cite news|title=Court of Appeal decision, Danielson confirmed champion|publisher=Motorsport.com|url=http://www.motorsport.com/f3.5/news/court-of-appeal-decision-danielson-confirmed-champion/?s=1|date=26 January 2007|accessdate=19 July 2016}}</ref> after the original winner ] was disqualified.<ref>{{cite news| title =WS: Misano 2006&nbsp;– Maldonado DQ gives Vettel win.| publisher =crash.net| url =http://www.crash.net/feature_view~t~WS--Misano-2006---Maldonado-DQ-gives-Vettel-win-~cid~7~id~9702.htm| date =17 July 2006| accessdate =1 June 2007}}</ref> At the next round at ], however, his finger was almost sliced off by flying débris in an accident, and he was expected to be out of racing for several weeks.<ref>{{cite news| title =WS: Injury to sideline Vettel for weeks.| publisher =crash.net| url =http://www.crash.net/news_View~t~WS--Injury-to-sideline-Vettel-for-weeks-~cid~7~id~134663.htm| date =30 July 2006| accessdate =1 June 2007}}</ref> Nevertheless, he managed to compete in the ] at ] the following weekend, finishing in sixth place. He also set the third-fastest lap time, surprising team boss Frédéric Vasseur.<ref>] magazine, 10 August 2006, page 27</ref> Vettel was promoted to ] for BMW Sauber in 2006, and participated in the ], finishing as runner-up.<ref>{{cite news|last=Noble|first=Jonathan|date=21 November 2006|title=Theissen regrets overloading Vettel|work=Autosport.com|url=http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/55728|access-date=11 August 2020|archive-date=3 March 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160303195323/http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/55728|url-status=live}}</ref> He also competed in the ], where he finished first and second at ] in his first two races. In the next round at Spa-Francorchamps, his finger was almost sliced off by flying debris following an accident, and he was expected to be out for several weeks.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Mills|first=Peter|date=29 July 2006|title=Vettel withdrawn from Spa|url=https://www.autosport.com/motorsport/news/53475/vettel-withdrawn-from-spa|access-date=11 August 2020|website=Autosport.com|archive-date=1 July 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230701105016/https://www.autosport.com/formula-v8-35/news/vettel-withdrawn-from-spa-4404647/4404647/|url-status=live}}</ref> Nevertheless, he managed to compete in the ] at ] the following weekend, where he finished in sixth place.<ref name=SSBio/>


Vettel competed in the Formula Renault 3.5 Series in ], and took his first win at the ]. He was leading the championship when he was called up to ] permanently.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Collantine|first1=Keith|title=F1 07 review: Driver rankings (1/3)|url=https://www.f1fanatic.co.uk/2007/11/21/f1-07-review-driver-rankings-13/|website=f1fanatic.co.uk|accessdate=3 January 2018|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20180103230509/https://www.f1fanatic.co.uk/2007/11/21/f1-07-review-driver-rankings-13/|archivedate=3 January 2018|date=21 November 2007}}</ref> His seat was taken by ].<ref>{{cite news| title =Ammermuller replaces Vettel at Carlin| work =Autosport| url =http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/61531| date =15 August 2007| accessdate =19 August 2007}}</ref> Vettel competed in the ], and took his first win at the ]. He led the championship when he was called up permanently by the ] Sauber Formula One team.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Collantine|first1=Keith|date=21 November 2007|title=F1 07 review: Driver rankings (1/3)|url=https://www.f1fanatic.co.uk/2007/11/21/f1-07-review-driver-rankings-13/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180103230509/https://www.f1fanatic.co.uk/2007/11/21/f1-07-review-driver-rankings-13/|archive-date=3 January 2018|access-date=3 January 2018|website=F1 Fanatic}}</ref>


==Formula One career== ==Formula One career==

] for ]]]
]]] ]]]


===BMW Sauber (2006–2007)=== === BMW Sauber (2006–2007) ===

Vettel became BMW Sauber's third driver at the ], when former incumbent ] was called up to replace ] for the ].<ref>{{cite web|title=Young Drivers Drink Milk and Are Fast|url=https://www.haaretz.com/young-drivers-drink-milk-and-are-fast-1.200548|publisher='']''|accessdate=3 January 2018|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20180103231752/https://www.haaretz.com/young-drivers-drink-milk-and-are-fast-1.200548|archivedate=3 January 2018|date=5 October 2006}}</ref> On his testing debut, Vettel set the fastest time in the second Friday Free Practice before the race.<ref>{{cite news|title=2006 Turkish Grand Prix&nbsp;– Fri Prac 2 |publisher=Formula One |url=http://www.formula1.com/results/season/2006/764/6330/ |date=25 August 2006 |accessdate=1 June 2007 |deadurl=yes |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20070930213407/http://www.formula1.com/results/season/2006/764/6330/ |archivedate=30 September 2007 |df= }}</ref> In doing so, Vettel became both the youngest Formula One driver to participate in a Grand Prix weekend at 19 years and 53 days, though this record was broken by ]. He also received the unfortunate record of collecting his first fine less than ten seconds into his career for exceeding the pitlane speed limit on the way to the track for the first time.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.f1fanatic.co.uk/sebastian-vettel |title=Sebastian Vettel |website=F1 Fanatic |accessdate=14 August 2015}}</ref> In his second testing session in the ], he set the fastest time in both Friday practice sessions,<ref>{{cite web|title=BMW shows strength at Monza|url=https://www.gpupdate.net/en/f1-news/129252/bmw-shows-strength-at-monza/|website=gpupdate.net|accessdate=3 January 2018|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20180103232039/https://www.gpupdate.net/en/f1-news/129252/bmw-shows-strength-at-monza/|archivedate=3 January 2018|date=8 September 2006}}</ref> a race weekend in which all the ] were quick, with his predecessor Robert Kubica finishing on the podium in the race.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Collantine|first1=Keith|title=Schumacher starts his swansong with win|url=https://www.f1fanatic.co.uk/2006/09/10/italian-grand-prix-2006-review/|website=f1fanatic.co.uk|accessdate=3 January 2018|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20180103232047/https://www.f1fanatic.co.uk/2006/09/10/italian-grand-prix-2006-review/|archivedate=3 January 2018|date=10 September 2006}}</ref>

Vettel was confirmed as BMW's test driver for 2007.<ref>{{cite news| title =BMW names same drivers for 2007| publisher =grandprix.com| url =http://www.grandprix.com/ns/ns17640.html| date =19 October 2006| accessdate =1 June 2007}}</ref> Following the serious crash of regular BMW driver Kubica at the {{F1 GP|2007|Canadian}}, Vettel substituted for him at the {{F1 GP|2007|United States}}.<ref>{{cite news| title =Vettel to replace Kubica at Indianapolis| work =Autosport| url =http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/59765| date =14 June 2007| accessdate =14 June 2007}}</ref> He started in seventh position on the grid, finishing in eighth position on Sunday to become the youngest driver to score a point in Formula One, a record previously held by ].<ref>{{cite news| title =Vettel becomes F1's youngest scorer| publisher =itv-f1.com| url =http://www.itv-f1.com/News_Article.aspx?PO_ID=39687| date =17 June 2007| accessdate =18 June 2007| deadurl =yes| archiveurl =https://web.archive.org/web/20070716204119/http://www.itv-f1.com/News_Article.aspx?PO_ID=39687| archivedate =16 July 2007| df =dmy-all}}</ref>

===Toro Rosso (2007–2008)===


====2007 season==== ==== 2006: Test driver ====
Vettel became BMW Sauber's third driver at the ], when former incumbent ] replaced ] as second driver for the ].<ref>{{cite web|date=5 October 2006|title=Young Drivers Drink Milk and Are Fast|url=https://www.haaretz.com/young-drivers-drink-milk-and-are-fast-1.200548|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180103231752/https://www.haaretz.com/young-drivers-drink-milk-and-are-fast-1.200548|archive-date=3 January 2018|access-date=3 January 2018|website=Haaretz}}</ref> On his testing debut, Vettel set the fastest time in the second Friday free practice.<ref>{{cite news|date=25 August 2006|title=2006 Turkish Grand Prix – Fri Prac 2|work=Formula 1|url=http://www.formula1.com/results/season/2006/764/6330/|access-date=1 June 2007|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070930213407/http://www.formula1.com/results/season/2006/764/6330/|archive-date=30 September 2007}}</ref> Vettel became the then-youngest Formula One driver to participate in a Grand Prix weekend at 19 years and 53 days.<ref>{{Cite news|last=Spurgeon|first=Brad|date=26 November 2010|title=Sebastian Vettel's Bright Future Is Now|work=The New York Times|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2010/11/27/sports/autoracing/27iht-SRVETTEL.html|access-date=11 August 2020|archive-date=11 May 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220511042155/https://www.nytimes.com/2010/11/27/sports/autoracing/27iht-SRVETTEL.html|url-status=live}}</ref> He also set a record for collecting his first fine in nine seconds into his career, as Vettel exceeded the pitlane speed limit on the way to the track.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Noble|first=Jonathan|date=25 August 2006|title=Grapevine: Vettel fined after just nine seconds|url=https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/54006/vettel-fined-after-just-nine-seconds|access-date=11 August 2020|website=Autosport.com|archive-date=12 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201112042349/https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/54006/vettel-fined-after-just-nine-seconds|url-status=live}}</ref> In his second testing session at the ], he set the fastest time in both Friday practice sessions.<ref>{{cite web|date=8 September 2006|title=BMW shows strength at Monza|url=https://www.gpupdate.net/en/f1-news/129252/bmw-shows-strength-at-monza/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180103232039/https://www.gpupdate.net/en/f1-news/129252/bmw-shows-strength-at-monza/|archive-date=3 January 2018|access-date=3 January 2018|website=GPUpdate.net}}</ref>


==== 2007: Debut ====
On 31 July 2007, BMW released Vettel to join ]'s ] team, replacing ] as one of its drivers from the {{F1 GP|2007|Hungarian}} onwards (as he was already under contract to Red Bull).<ref name="APvetteltotororosso">{{cite news | title = U.S. driver Scott Speed dropped by Toro Rosso, replaced by Sebastian Vettel | agency = Associated Press | date = 31 July 2007 | url = http://www.iht.com/articles/ap/2007/07/31/sports/EU-SPT-CAR-F1-Speed-Dropped.php | accessdate =21 July 2008}}</ref> He earned approximately US$165,000 for finishing the season with Toro Rosso.<ref>{{cite news| title =Vettel to earn $165, 000 at STR| publisher =flagworld.auto123.com| url =http://flagworld.auto123.com/en/racing/news/index,view.spy?artid=87349| date =1 August 2007| accessdate =1 August 2007| deadurl =yes| archiveurl =https://web.archive.org/web/20071015201248/http://flagworld.auto123.com/en/racing/news/index,view.spy?artid=87349| archivedate =15 October 2007| df =dmy-all}}</ref> Before the race, it was also announced that Vettel would drive for Toro Rosso in {{F1|2008}},<ref>{{cite news| title =Vettel to race for Toro Rosso in 2008| work =Autosport| url =http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/61270| date =2 August 2007| accessdate =2 August 2007}}</ref> alongside ].<ref>{{cite news| title =Toro Rosso confirm Bourdais for 2008| publisher =grandprix.com| url =http://www.grandprix.com/ns/ns19520.html| date =10 August 2008| accessdate =10 August 2008}}</ref>
] at the ]]]
In the rain-affected {{F1 GP|2007|Japanese}} at Fuji, Vettel worked his way up to third, behind ] and Red Bull Racing's ], and seemed to be on course for his and the team's maiden podium finish. However, Vettel crashed into Webber under safety car conditions, forcing both cars to retire. Webber said in an interview after the race, "It's kids isn't it. Kids with not enough experience&nbsp;– you do a good job and then they fuck it all up", and also criticised ]'s contribution toward the accident, describing his antics behind the safety car as "shit".<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.pitpass.com/33132-Webber-defends-Hamilton-comments|title=Webber defends Hamilton comments|date=10 October 2007|accessdate=6 June 2011|publisher=pitpass.com}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://dalje.com/en-sports/webber-slams-hamilton-for-erratic-driving/86755|title=Webber Slams Hamilton For Erratic Driving|work=Dalje|publisher=Kontineo oglašavanje d.o.o.|date=4 October 2007|accessdate=14 April 2011|deadurl=yes|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20131203023735/http://dalje.com/en-sports/webber-slams-hamilton-for-erratic-driving/86755|archivedate=3 December 2013}}</ref> Vettel was initially punished with a ten-place grid penalty for the following race, but this was lifted after a spectator video on YouTube<!-- Video removed due to copyright violation claimed by Formula One Management --> showed the incident may have been caused by Hamilton's behaviour behind the ].<ref>{{cite web | title = Stewards investigating Hamilton for Webber-Vettel crash | publisher = GPUpdate.net | year = 2007 | url = http://www.gpupdate.net/en/f1-news/169614/stewards-investigating-hamilton-for-webber-vettel-crash/ | accessdate =1 February 2011}}</ref>


Vettel was confirmed as BMW's test driver for {{f1|2007}}. Following Kubica's crash at the ], Vettel was named his replacement at the ].<ref>{{cite news|last=Elizalde|first=Pablo|date=14 June 2007|title=Vettel to replace Kubica at Indianapolis|work=Autosport.com|url=http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/59765|access-date=14 June 2007|archive-date=30 July 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170730150759/http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/59765|url-status=live}}</ref> He started in seventh position and finished in eighth to become the then-youngest driver to score a point in Formula One.<ref>{{Cite web|date=17 June 2007|title=Vettel becomes F1's youngest scorer|url=http://www.itv-f1.com/News_Article.aspx?PO_ID=39687|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070716204119/http://www.itv-f1.com/News_Article.aspx?PO_ID=39687|archive-date=16 July 2007|access-date=11 August 2020|website=ITV F1}}</ref>
Vettel finished a career-best fourth a week later at the {{F1 GP|2007|Chinese}}, having started 17th on the grid while in mixed conditions. He collected five championship points, making it both his and Toro Rosso's best race result.<ref name="f1fvettelfourthchina">{{cite web | title = Flawless Vettel storms to fourth | publisher = F1Fanatic.co.uk | year = 2007 | url = http://www.f1fanatic.co.uk/2007/10/07/flawless-vettel-storms-to-fourth/ | accessdate =7 October 2007}}</ref> Red Bull owner ] stated his belief Vettel would be one of Formula One's big stars in the future. "Vettel is one of the young guys with extraordinary potential He is fast, he is intelligent, and he is very interested in the technical side."<ref>. Retrieved 30 January 2008.</ref>


=== Toro Rosso (2007–2008) ===
====2008: Youngest polesitter and first race win====
{{see also|2008 Formula One World Championship}}
After four races of the 2008 season, Vettel was the only driver to have failed to finish a single race, having retired on the first lap in three of them. In each of these three instances, he was involved in accidents caused by other drivers, the other being an engine failure. However, at the fifth round at the {{F1 GP|2008|Turkish}}, he finally saw the chequered flag, albeit finishing in 17th after qualifying 14th and suffering a puncture on the opening lap. In the next race at the {{F1 GP|2008|Monaco}}, Vettel scored his first points of the season with a fifth-place finish, after qualifying 17th. He scored again at the {{F1 GP|2008|Canadian}} fighting off ] in the last few laps for the final championship point, having started from pit lane. Vettel finished 12th in ], before retiring on lap one at the wet {{F1 GP|2008|British}} after being clipped by ] and aquaplaned into the gravel trap along with Coulthard. He earned another point at the {{F1 GP|2008|German}}, fending off Fernando Alonso and securing eighth after ] ran wide. Vettel retired in ] after his engine overheated during his first pit stop. He impressed many at the {{F1 GP|2008|European}} by setting the fastest times in the first practice session and second qualifying session, before qualifying sixth on the grid. Vettel finished the race in sixth, two seconds behind Jarno Trulli. Toro Rosso's technical director Giorgio Ascanelli explained that something changed at the European Grand Prix in Valencia: "Suddenly Vettel understood something about how to drive an F1 car quickly. It made a huge difference&nbsp;– not only to the speed he could unlock, but also to his ability to do so consistently."<ref>{{Citation |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/formula1/19487080 |title=Formula 1's greatest drivers. Number 8: Sebastian Vettel |publisher=BBC |date=5 September 2012}}</ref>


==== 2007–2008: Maiden race win and rise to prominence ====
] at the ]]] ] at the ]]]
BMW released him in July 2007 to join ]'s ], replacing ] from the ] onwards, as Vettel was already under contract to ].<ref>{{Cite news|date=31 July 2007|title=Toro Rosso axe Speed for Vettel|work=BBC Sport|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/motorsport/formula_one/6923940.stm|access-date=11 August 2020|archive-date=19 September 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200919103308/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/motorsport/formula_one/6923940.stm|url-status=live}}</ref> It was also announced that he would drive for Toro Rosso in {{F1|2008}} alongside ].<ref>{{Cite news|last=Barretto|first=Lawrence|date=27 October 2013|title=What is it like to be Vettel's team-mate?|work=BBC Sport|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/23259028|access-date=11 August 2020|archive-date=11 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201111193216/https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/23259028|url-status=live}}</ref>


In the rain-affected {{F1 GP|2007|Japanese}} at ], Vettel worked his way up to third, behind ] and Red Bull Racing's ], and seemed to be on course for his and the team's maiden podium finish. However, Vettel crashed into Webber under ] conditions, forcing both cars to retire. Webber said after the race: "It's kids isn't it. Kids with not enough experience – you do a good job and then they fuck it all up".<ref>{{Cite news|date=22 November 2013|title=Nutcases, kids, Multi 21: The very best quotes and quips from Mark Webber's career|url=https://www.news.com.au/nutcases-kids-multi-21-the-very-best-quotes-and-quips-from-mark-webbers-career/news-story/18f7ed933d1811508def06da33ba35aa|access-date=9 August 2020|newspaper=News.com.au|archive-date=22 October 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211022200932/https://www.news.com.au/nutcases-kids-multi-21-the-very-best-quotes-and-quips-from-mark-webbers-career/news-story/18f7ed933d1811508def06da33ba35aa|url-status=live}}</ref> Vettel was initially punished with a ten-place grid penalty for the following race, but this was lifted after a spectator video on ]<!-- Video removed due to copyright violation claimed by Formula One Management --> showed the incident may have been caused by Hamilton's behaviour behind the safety car.<ref>{{Cite web|date=5 October 2007|title=Hamilton cleared over Japan crash|url=http://edition.cnn.com/2007/SPORT/10/04/hamilton.inquiry/|access-date=11 August 2020|website=CNN|archive-date=17 October 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211017203553/http://edition.cnn.com/2007/SPORT/10/04/hamilton.inquiry/|url-status=live}}</ref>
At the ], Vettel became the ] in history to win a Formula One Grand Prix.<ref>{{Citation |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/motorsport/formula_one/7615250.stm |title=French Grand Prix |work=BBC Sport |date=14 September 2008 |first=Andrew |last=Benson }}</ref> Aged 21 years and 74 days, Vettel broke the record set by ] at the ] by 317 days when he won in wet conditions at ].<ref>{{Citation |url=https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2008/sep/15/formulaone.motorsports1 |title=Aged just 21 years and 74 days, Vettel is youngest ever Grand Prix winner |work=The Guardian |date=15 September 2008 |first=Alan |last=Henry | location=London}}</ref> Vettel led for the majority of the Grand Prix and crossed the finish line 12.5 seconds ahead of McLaren's Heikki Kovalainen. It was the first podium and win for his Toro Rosso team.<ref>{{Citation |url=http://www.itv-f1.com/news_article.aspx?id=43959 |title=Vettel scores stunning maiden GP win |work=ITV Sport |date=14 September 2008 |deadurl=yes |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080915060755/http://www.itv-f1.com/news_article.aspx?id=43959 |archivedate=15 September 2008 }}</ref> Earlier in the weekend, he had already become the ], after setting the fastest times in both Q2 and Q3 qualifying stages,<ref>{{Citation |url=http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,12433_4139388,00.html |title=Vettel claims Italian pole |work=Sky Sports |date=13 September 2008 }}</ref> and his win also gave him the record of youngest podium finisher. Toro Rosso team boss ] said, "As he proved today, he can win races, but he's going to win world championships. He's a cool guy".<ref name="BBC1">{{Citation |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/motorsport/formula_one/7615755.stm |title=French Grand Prix |work=BBC Sport |date=14 September 2008 |first=Andrew |last=Benson}}</ref> Hamilton praised the German, stating that this victory showed "how good he is".<ref name="BBC1" /> The nature of the victory and the story of the 21-year-old's fledgling career led the German media to dub him "baby ]", although Vettel was quick to downplay the expectation the result had brought, particularly the comparison with the seven-time World Champion: "To compare me with Michael Schumacher is just a bit ridiculous... It will be difficult in normal conditions for us to repeat this achievement".<ref>{{Citation |url=http://www.planet-f1.com/story/0,18954,3213_4148169,00.html |title=Vettel: I'm not the next Michael Schumacher |work=Formula One News |date=15 September 2008 |deadurl=yes |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080916051109/http://www.planet-f1.com/story/0,18954,3213_4148169,00.html |archivedate=16 September 2008 }}</ref> He then went on to finish fifth in ]. In ], he finished sixth after being promoted from seventh after teammate Bourdais was penalised for contact with ].


Vettel finished a career-best fourth a week later at the {{F1 GP|2007|Chinese}}, having started 17th on the grid while in mixed conditions.<ref>{{Cite web|title=2007 Formula 1™ Sinopec Chinese Grand Prix – Starting Grid|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/results.html/2007/races/823/china/starting-grid.html|access-date=11 August 2020|website=Formula 1|archive-date=15 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200815172724/https://www.formula1.com/en/results.html/2007/races/823/china/starting-grid.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|last=Benson|first=Andrew|date=7 October 2007|title=Hamilton error keeps title alive|work=BBC Sport|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/motorsport/formula_one/7032263.stm|access-date=11 August 2020|archive-date=29 October 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201029202023/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/motorsport/formula_one/7032263.stm|url-status=live}}</ref> He was tipped by Red Bull owner ] as one of the sport's big future stars: "Vettel is one of the young guys with extraordinary potential He is fast, he is intelligent, and he is very interested in the technical side."<ref>{{Cite web|last1=Kuntschik|first1=Gerhard|last2=Noble|first2=Jonathan|date=18 January 2008|title=Vettel tipped to be a 'big star' in F1|url=https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/64749/vettel-tipped-to-be-a-big-star-in-f1|access-date=9 August 2020|website=Autosport.com|archive-date=27 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201127211022/https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/64749/vettel-tipped-to-be-a-big-star-in-f1|url-status=live}}</ref>
In the {{F1 GP|2008|Brazilian}}, after running as high as second in the race on a 3-stop strategy, Vettel overtook Lewis Hamilton in the rain for fifth place on the penultimate lap to contribute to a thrilling climax to the season. He nearly deprived the McLaren driver of the championship before ] slowed dramatically on the last lap (he was struggling with dry tyres in the ever-increasing rain) enabling both Vettel and Hamilton to pass him, earning Hamilton the title, and Vettel fourth place.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.motorsportmagazine.com/history/f1/i-was-there-when-2008-brazilian-gp|title=I was there when... 2008 Brazilian GP|date=2013-11-21|website=Motor Sport Magazine|language=en|access-date=2019-04-04}}</ref>


After four races of the {{F1|2008}} season, Vettel was the only driver to have failed to finish a single race, having retired on the first lap in three of them. At the {{F1 GP|2008|Monaco}}, Vettel scored his first points of the season with a fifth-place finish, after qualifying 17th. Toro Rosso's technical director Giorgio Ascanelli explained that something changed at the {{F1 GP|2008|European}} in ]: "Suddenly Vettel understood something about how to drive an F1 car quickly. It made a huge difference&nbsp;– not only to the speed he could unlock but also to his ability to do so consistently."<ref>{{Cite news|date=5 September 2012|title=Formula 1's greatest drivers. Number 8: Sebastian Vettel|work=BBC Sport|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/19487080|access-date=11 August 2020|archive-date=12 September 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200912113707/https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/19487080|url-status=live}}</ref>
After the season had finished Vettel was named Rookie of the Year at the ].<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.f1technical.net/news/11220|title=Vettel 'Rookie of the Year'|publisher=F1Technical|date=8 December 2008|accessdate=14 July 2012}}</ref>


At the wet {{F1 GP|2008|Italian}}, Vettel became the ] in history to win a Formula One Grand Prix, aged 21 years and 74 days.<ref>{{Cite news|last=Henry|first=Alan|date=15 September 2008|title=Aged just 21 years and 74 days, Vettel is youngest ever grand prix winner|work=The Guardian|url=https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2008/sep/15/formulaone.motorsports1|access-date=11 August 2020|archive-date=1 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201101025445/https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2008/sep/15/formulaone.motorsports1|url-status=live}}</ref> He led for the majority of the Grand Prix and crossed the finish line 12.5 seconds ahead of ]'s ].<ref>{{Cite web|date=14 September 2008|title=Vettel scores stunning maiden GP win|url=http://www.itv-f1.com/news_article.aspx?id=43959|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080915060755/http://www.itv-f1.com/news_article.aspx?id=43959|archive-date=15 September 2008|access-date=11 August 2020|website=ITV F1}}</ref> It would also be Toro Rosso's only win.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Toro Rosso – Wins|url=https://www.statsf1.com/en/toro-rosso/victoire.aspx|access-date=6 November 2019|website=Stats F1|archive-date=6 November 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191106184032/https://www.statsf1.com/en/toro-rosso/victoire.aspx|url-status=live}}</ref> Earlier in the weekend, he had already become the ].<ref>{{Cite news|date=13 September 2008|title=Vettel claims Italian pole|url=https://www.skysports.com/f1/news/12433/4139388/vettel-claims-italian-pole|access-date=11 August 2020|website=Sky Sports|archive-date=7 May 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220507223928/https://www.skysports.com/f1/news/12433/4139388/vettel-claims-italian-pole|url-status=live}}</ref> Toro Rosso team boss ] said: "As he proved today, he can win races, but he's going to win World Championships. He's a cool guy".<ref>{{Cite news|last=Benson|first=Andrew|date=14 September 2008|title=Berger tips Vettel for F1 glory|work=BBC Sport|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/motorsport/formula_one/7615755.stm|access-date=11 August 2020|archive-date=15 April 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210415031827/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/motorsport/formula_one/7615755.stm|url-status=live}}</ref> His victory led the German media to dub him "Baby Schumi".<ref>{{Cite web|last=Bellingham|first=Tom|date=26 August 2012|title=Baby Schumi: More than just a nickname|url=https://www.redbull.com/car-en/baby-schumi-more-than-just-a-nickname|access-date=11 August 2020|website=Red Bull|archive-date=26 October 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211026034857/https://www.redbull.com/car-en/baby-schumi-more-than-just-a-nickname|url-status=live}}</ref>
===Red Bull (2009–2014)===


Vettel was named 2008 Rookie of the Year at the ].<ref>{{Cite web|last=English|first=Steven|date=7 December 2008|title=Rookie of the Year: Sebastian Vettel|url=https://www.autosport.com/awards/news/72392/rookie-of-the-year-sebastian-vettel|access-date=11 August 2020|website=Autosport.com|archive-date=25 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201125143524/https://www.autosport.com/awards/news/72392/rookie-of-the-year-sebastian-vettel|url-status=live}}</ref>
====2009: Championship runner-up====
{{see also|2009 Formula One World Championship}}
] that he won]]
At the start of the 2009 season, Vettel replaced the retired ] at ], and began strongly at the {{F1 GP|2009|Australian}}, qualifying third and running in second for the majority of the race. However, a clash with ] over second place on the third to last lap of the race forced both to retire. Vettel attempted to finish the race on three wheels behind the safety car to salvage some points, but eventually pulled off to the side. He thought that he would be able to attempt this because the yellow flag resulting from his incident forbids overtaking; instead he was given a ten-place grid penalty for the next race, the {{F1 GP|2009|Malaysian}}, and his team was fined for instructing him to stay on track after the damage occurred.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/74059|title=Vettel gets grid penalty for Malaysia|work=Autosport|accessdate=31 March 2009|date=29 March 2009}}</ref> In Malaysia he qualified in third position, but was demoted down to 13th due to his ten-place grid drop. He spun out of the race while eighth, just before the race was stopped due to adverse weather conditions.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/motorsport/formula_one/7984059.stm|title=Malaysian Grand Prix as it happened|publisher=bbc.co.uk/sport|accessdate=5 April 2009 | date=5 April 2009|first=Caroline|last=Cheese}}</ref> However, in ] he went on to take pole position, the first for the Red Bull Racing team. He went on to win the race ahead of teammate ], again a first for his team, which scored its first victory and 1–2 finish in the same race.<ref>{{cite news| url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/motorsport/formula_one/8006717.stm |publisher=BBC News | title=Vettel seals first Red Bull win | date=19 April 2009 | accessdate=23 May 2010 | first=Chris | last=Whyatt}}</ref> At the age of 21 years and 287 days, Vettel became the youngest Grand Prix driver in history to win for two different teams, having won the ] for the Toro Rosso team.


=== Red Bull (2009–2014) ===
In the {{F1 GP|2009|Bahrain}}, Vettel qualified in third, and finished second behind ] in the race. In ], he qualified in second but finished the race in fourth, behind his teammate Webber who finished in third. Vettel won the {{F1 GP|2009|British}} after claiming pole position in qualifying.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/motorsport/formulaone/5594381/British-Grand-Prix-Sebastian-Vettel-claims-win-to-chip-away-at-Jenson-Buttons-lead.html|title=British Grand Prix: Sebastian Vettel claims win to chip away at Jenson Button's lead|date=21 June 2009|work=The Telegraph|accessdate=25 June 2009 | location=London | first=Tom | last=Cary}}</ref> At the {{F1 GP|2009|German}} he qualified fourth and finished second, behind Webber, who won his first Grand Prix.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.grandprix.com/race/r812racenotes.html |title=Mark Webber takes first win at German GP |publisher=Grandprix.com |date=12 July 2009 |accessdate=19 July 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110717221201/http://www.grandprix.com/race/r812racenotes.html |archive-date=17 July 2011 |dead-url=yes }}</ref> At the {{F1 GP|2009|Hungarian}}, Vettel qualified second after an eventful qualifying, but had to retire from the race on lap 30 after his car sustained damage from contact with ]'s car on the first lap.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.grandprix.com/race/r813racenotes.html |title=Lewis Hamilton wins Hungarian GP |publisher=Grandprix.com |date=26 July 2009 |accessdate=19 July 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090729073455/http://www.grandprix.com/race/r813racenotes.html |archive-date=29 July 2009 |dead-url=yes }}</ref>


==== 2009: Championship contender ====
], finishing runner-up in the 2009 season]]
]]]
At the {{F1 GP|2009|European}}, he qualified fourth but had to retire from the race with an engine failure. It was the second engine failure for Vettel during the weekend, and the RB5's reliability issues began to show.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/77920 |title=Barrichello wins again five years later |work=Autosport |accessdate=10 July 2010 |date=23 August 2009}}</ref> He finished third at ], and struggled for pace at Monza, finishing 8th at a race he previously won. He qualified 2nd at Singapore, but was given a drive-though penalty for speeding in the pit lane and damaged the diffuser on a kerb, struggling to 4th. He subsequently won the {{F1 GP|2009|Japanese}} from pole position, leading every lap and only being denied of the fastest lap by 0.002 seconds by teammate Mark Webber, who did so on the final lap.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2009/10/05/sports/autoracing/05iht-PRIX.html|title=Perfect Weekend for a German at Japanese Grand Prix|date=4 October 2009|work=The New York Times|accessdate=17 November 2010|first=Brad|last=Spurgeon}}</ref> He would have to wait until the ] until he finally achieved a ].
] at the ], where he took the first ] of the season]]
At the start of the {{F1|2009}} season, Vettel replaced the retired ] at Red Bull Racing. He began strongly at the {{F1 GP|2009|Australian}}, running in second for the majority of the race. However, a clash with ] over second place in the latter stages forced both to retire.<ref>{{cite news|last=Elizalde|first=Pablo|date=29 March 2009|title=Vettel gets grid penalty for Malaysia|work=Autosport.com|url=http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/74059|access-date=31 March 2009|archive-date=1 April 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090401153225/http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/74059|url-status=live}}</ref> He went on to take pole position and the race win at {{F1 GP|2009|Chinese}}; Red Bull Racing's maiden pole and win.<ref>{{cite web|title=How Sebastian Vettel earned a first-ever win in Formula One for Red Bull Racing|url=https://www.redbull.com/gb-en/red-bull-racing-1st-win|publisher=Red Bull|date=13 May 2019|access-date=14 November 2020|archive-date=26 October 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211026011258/https://www.redbull.com/gb-en/red-bull-racing-1st-win|url-status=live}}</ref>


Further wins followed in ], ] and ].<ref>{{Cite web|title=2009 Race Results|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/results.html/2009/races.html|access-date=9 August 2020|website=Formula 1|archive-date=10 May 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220510040455/https://www.formula1.com/en/results.html/2009/races.html|url-status=live}}</ref> He won the Japanese Grand Prix from pole position, leading every lap.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2009/10/05/sports/autoracing/05iht-PRIX.html|title=Perfect Weekend for a German at Japanese Grand Prix|date=4 October 2009|work=The New York Times|access-date=17 November 2010|first=Brad|last=Spurgeon|archive-date=17 June 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130617194220/http://www.nytimes.com/2009/10/05/sports/autoracing/05iht-PRIX.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Vettel won the inaugural Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, the first ever day-night race, to finish second in the World Drivers' Championship standings behind ].<ref>{{Cite news|last=Whyatt|first=Chris|date=1 November 2009|title=Vettel wins as Hamilton drops out|work=BBC Sport|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/motorsport/formula_one/8336637.stm|access-date=9 August 2020|archive-date=3 November 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091103055918/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/motorsport/formula_one/8336637.stm|url-status=live}}</ref> He also scored his third ] of the year, drawing him level with teammate ]. However, as Vettel had more second fastest laps, he won the 2009 ].<ref>{{Cite web|date=3 November 2009|title=Sebastian Vettel wins DHL Fastest Lap Trophy|url=http://www.formula1.com/news/headlines/2009/11/10190.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091106102621/http://www.formula1.com/news/headlines/2009/11/10190.html|archive-date=6 November 2009|access-date=11 August 2020|website=Formula 1}}</ref>
At the {{F1 GP|2009|Brazilian}}, Vettel qualified 16th in a rain-hit session, behind title rivals Button (14th) and ] (1st), while his teammate Webber qualified second with ] in third. Vettel needed to score at least second place in the race to keep his title hopes alive. He finished fourth with Button behind, giving Button the Championship and moving Vettel up into second place. He officially claimed second place by winning the ], again ahead of Webber with Button completing the podium. He also scored his third ] of the year, drawing him level with teammate Webber. However, as Vettel had more second fastest laps, he won the 2009 ].<ref name="2009 results">{{cite news| url =http://www.formula1.com/results/season/2009/dhl_fastest_laps.html | title = DHL Fastest Lap Award – 2009 Results | publisher=Formula1.com | accessdate =11 February 2009}}</ref>


==== 2010: Youngest World Champion ====
On 21 August 2009 it was announced that Red Bull and Vettel had extended his contract until the end of the {{F1|2011}} season<ref>{{cite news|title=Red Bull extend Vettel contract|publisher=GPUpdate|url=http://f1.gpupdate.net/en/formula-1-news/217838/red-bull-extend-vettel-contract/|date=21 August 2009|accessdate=1 April 2010}}</ref> with an option for {{F1|2012}}. The option was later taken up on 14 March 2011, as Vettel extended his contract with the team until the end of 2014.<ref>{{cite news|title=Sebastian Vettel extends contract with Red Bull|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/motorsport/formula_one/9424199.stm|accessdate=14 March 2011|date=14 March 2011|publisher=BBC Sport|first=Andrew|last=Benson}}</ref>


Vettel took the first pole position of the {{F1|2010}} season at the {{F1 GP|2010|Bahrain}}.<ref>{{Cite news|last=Benson|first=Andrew|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/motorsport/formula_one/8565704.stm|title=Vettel stuns Ferrari to grab pole|date=13 March 2010|work=BBC Sport|access-date=19 March 2020|archive-date=7 October 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201007233821/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/motorsport/formula_one/8565704.stm|url-status=live}}</ref> He led most of the race but as a result of a ] failure, Vettel finished in fourth place.<ref>{{Cite news|last=Benson|first=Andrew|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/motorsport/formula_one/8566770.stm|title=Fernando Alonso leads Ferrari one-two in Bahrain|date=14 March 2010|work=BBC Sport|access-date=19 March 2020|archive-date=29 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201129075734/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/motorsport/formula_one/8566770.stm|url-status=live}}</ref> At the {{F1 GP|2010|Australian}}, Vettel was appointed as a director of the ].<ref>{{cite news|last=Noble|first=Jonathan|date=26 March 2010|title=Heidfeld appointed GPDA chairman|work=Autosport.com|url=http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/82402|access-date=26 March 2010|archive-date=29 March 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100329204950/http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/82402|url-status=live}}</ref> He took his first win of the season in ].<ref>{{cite news|last=Weaver|first=Paul|date=4 April 2010|title=Sebastian Vettel of Red Bull wins Formula One's Malaysian Grand Prix|work=The Guardian|url=https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2010/apr/04/f1-formula-one-malaysian-grand-prix|access-date=6 April 2010|archive-date=14 December 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131214115530/http://www.theguardian.com/sport/2010/apr/04/f1-formula-one-malaysian-grand-prix|url-status=live}}</ref>
====2010: Youngest world champion====
{{see also|2010 Formula One World Championship}}{{Refimprove section|date=February 2019}}] at the ], where he took the first ] of the season]]
Vettel continued with Red Bull for 2010, and took the first pole position of the season at the {{F1 GP|2010|Bahrain}}. Vettel went on to lead most of the race but a spark-plug failure meant that his lap times slowed down, and as a result the two Ferraris and the McLaren of Lewis Hamilton passed him. After a brief challenge from Rosberg he brought the car home in fourth.


In ], Vettel made it a Red Bull 1–2 with him second and Webber first. Both were equal on points in the standings, with Webber first based on total wins.<ref>{{Cite news|last=Dawkes|first=Phil|date=16 May 2010|title=Dominant Mark Webber takes Monaco win for Red Bull|work=BBC Sport|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/motorsport/formula_one/8685359.stm|access-date=11 August 2020|archive-date=19 May 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100519131055/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/motorsport/formula_one/8685359.stm|url-status=live}}</ref> At the {{F1 GP|2010|Turkish}}, Vettel was running second behind Webber when he made a passing move on his teammate. The two collided, putting Vettel out of the race, with neither driver accepting responsibility for the collision.<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/motorsport/formula_one/8713780.stm|title=Mark Webber & Sebastian Vettel play crash blame game|date=30 May 2010|work=BBC Sport|access-date=19 March 2020|archive-date=4 June 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100604030142/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/motorsport/formula_one/8713780.stm|url-status=live}}</ref>
At the {{F1 GP|2010|Australian}}, Vettel was appointed as a director of the ].<ref>{{cite news|last=Noble|first=Jonathan|title=Heidfeld appointed GPDA chairman|publisher=]|work=Autosport|url=http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/82402|date=26 March 2010|accessdate=26 March 2010}}</ref> He took his second consecutive pole position in Australia, ahead of teammate Mark Webber, but spun off when leading the race, due to a loose wheel nut. In ], he took his first win of the 2010 season with Webber coming in second place, having passed both him and ] at turn one.<ref>{{cite news|first=Paul|last=Weaver|url=https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2010/apr/04/f1-formula-one-malaysian-grand-prix|title=Sebastian Vettel of Red Bull wins Formula One's Malaysian Grand Prix|date=4 April 2010|work=The Guardian |location=Kuala Lumpur|accessdate=6 April 2010}}</ref>


At the {{F1 GP|2010|British}}, both Vettel and Webber's cars were fitted with a new front wing design. Vettel's wing was damaged in the third practice session, and Webber's sole surviving example was removed and given to his teammate.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Noble|first1=Jonathan|last2=Beer|first2=Matt|date=10 July 2010|title=Webber unhappy with wing situation|work=Autosport.com|url=http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/85160|access-date=8 August 2010|archive-date=13 July 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100713060743/http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/85160|url-status=live}}</ref> Vettel qualified in first place, but suffered a puncture. He finished seventh while Webber took the victory. In ], he qualified on pole ahead of Webber and went on to win with a lights-to-flag victory. Aged 23 years and 98 days, Vettel became the youngest Grand Prix driver to win at the same track on two occasions.<ref name=":11">{{Cite web|last=Albers-Daly|first=Thiemo|date=1 March 2020|title=F1 – The Story so Far: Sebastian Vettel|url=https://drivetribe.com/p/f1-the-story-so-far-sebastian-vettel-ajYp6Q0YRPCrq6L3Sx5qew|access-date=19 March 2020|website=DriveTribe|archive-date=13 January 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220113020843/https://drivetribe.com/p/f1-the-story-so-far-sebastian-vettel-ajYp6Q0YRPCrq6L3Sx5qew|url-status=dead}}</ref> At the inaugural {{F1 GP|2010|Korean}}, Vettel led the first 45 laps before retiring with engine failure, handing victory to championship rival ].<ref>{{Cite web|last=Whyatt|first=Chris|date=25 October 2010|title=Korean GP as it happened|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/motorsport/formula_one/9120810.stm|access-date=19 March 2020|website=BBC Sport|archive-date=24 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201124085335/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/motorsport/formula_one/9120810.stm|url-status=live}}</ref>
Vettel qualified on pole at ] alongside Webber. At the start of the wet race ] jump-started<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.grandprix.com/race/r824racereport.html|title=Chinese GP&nbsp;– Sunday&nbsp;– Race Report: Button rains on Red Bull parade|publisher=grandprix.com|date=18 April 2010|accessdate=10 August 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100727011509/http://www.grandprix.com/race/r824racereport.html|archive-date=27 July 2010|dead-url=yes}}</ref> and Vettel was passed by Webber, dropping back to third. The increasing rain forced Vettel and Webber to pit at the same time for intermediate tyres that wore out after only a few laps and dropped them back into the midfield. Vettel slowly climbed back up to finish sixth, ahead of Webber. In ], Vettel was outqualified by teammate Webber and claimed second on the grid. Despite having a major brake problem during the last eight laps, Vettel managed third place after Hamilton crashed on the penultimate lap.


With the 1–2 finish at the {{F1 GP|2010|Brazilian}}, Vettel and Webber secured Red Bull Racing's first ].<ref>{{Cite web|last=Spurgeon|first=Brad|date=7 November 2010|title=Vettel Drives to Victory in Brazilian Grand Prix|url=https://rendezvous.blogs.nytimes.com/2010/11/07/vettel-drives-to-victory-in-brazilian-grand-prix/|access-date=19 March 2020|website=International Herald Tribune|archive-date=4 December 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131204183137/https://rendezvous.blogs.nytimes.com/2010/11/07/vettel-drives-to-victory-in-brazilian-grand-prix/|url-status=live}}</ref> Vettel went into the final race of the season in ] with a 15-point deficit to Alonso and a 7-point gap to Webber.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Brazil 2010 – Championship|url=https://www.statsf1.com/en/2010/bresil/championnat.aspx|access-date=19 March 2020|website=Stats F1|archive-date=27 August 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180827010707/http://www.statsf1.com/en/2010/bresil/championnat.aspx|url-status=live}}</ref> He won the Grand Prix from pole to become the youngest ] in the sport's history, as Alonso only finished in seventh place.<ref>{{Cite news|date=14 November 2010|title=Sebastian Vettel wins Formula One world championship in Abu Dhabi|work=The Guardian|url=https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2010/nov/14/sebastian-vettel-champion|access-date=11 August 2020|archive-date=31 October 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201031205440/https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2010/nov/14/sebastian-vettel-champion|url-status=live}}</ref> Following ] in the {{F1|1964}} season and ] in {{F1|1976}}, this was the third time in Formula One history that the title winner had not topped the championship table until after the last race.<ref>{{cite journal|last=Hughes|first=Mark|date=18 November 2010|title=Vettel keeps his head|journal=Autosport|volume=202|issue=7|pages=32–43}}</ref>
In ] Vettel was again outqualified by Webber. In the race he passed Kubica at the start and stayed there for the remainder of the Grand Prix and made it a Red Bull 1–2. After the race, the two Red Bull drivers were equal on points in the Drivers' Championship, with Webber being a championship leader based on total wins. At the {{F1 GP|2010|Turkish}} he qualified third and was running second behind Webber when he made a passing move on the Australian. The two collided, putting Vettel out of the race and dropping him to fifth in the Drivers' Championship, with neither driver accepting responsibility for causing the collision. He finished fourth at the {{F1 GP|2010|Canadian}}, maintaining his position in the standings. He started the {{F1 GP|2010|European}} in pole position and led from start to finish to score his second win of the season.


==== 2011: Dominant second title ====
] and went on to win his first World Drivers' Championship title]]
] was his first win in the principality, and his fifth from the first six races of the 2011 season.]]
] where, with four races remaining in the season, he became the youngest double World Drivers' Champion]]
]]]
Vettel started the {{F1|2011}} season with wins in ] and ], before a second-place finish at the {{F1 GP|2011|Chinese}} due to poor tyre management, possibly related to his inability to properly communicate with his team, as his radio was broken.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Collantine|first=Keith|date=17 April 2011|title=Vettel reveals KERS and radio problems|url=https://www.racefans.net/2011/04/17/vettel-reveals-kers-radio-problems/|access-date=19 March 2020|website=RaceFans|archive-date=24 October 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211024101609/https://www.racefans.net/2011/04/17/vettel-reveals-kers-radio-problems/|url-status=live}}</ref> In ], Vettel led the race but due to another radio malfunction, the Red Bull pit crew was not prepared when he came in. The ] was slow and he was sent out on the wrong tyres, handing the lead to Button. Vettel switched to a one-stop strategy and stuck with one set of soft tyres for 56 laps. He was caught by Alonso and Button as his tyres deteriorated, but neither were able to pass him.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://en.espnf1.com/monaco/motorsport/story/50148.html|title=Sebastian Vettel wins Monaco thriller after late red flag|date=29 May 2011|website=ESPN UK|access-date=19 March 2020|archive-date=16 August 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120816102140/http://en.espnf1.com/monaco/motorsport/story/50148.html|url-status=live}}</ref> The race was ] with few laps remaining, which allowed teams to change their tyres; when the race was restarted under the safety car, Vettel was able to retain the lead and win.<ref>{{Cite news|last=Holt|first=Sarah|date=29 May 2011|title=Vettel seals dramatic Monaco win|work=BBC Sport|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/motorsport/formula_one/9499975.stm|access-date=11 August 2020|archive-date=24 June 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110624035855/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/motorsport/formula_one/9499975.stm|url-status=live}}</ref>


At the {{F1 GP|2011|European}}, the ] (FIA) enforced a ban on engine mappings. It was believed by some in the press that this was an attempt by the FIA to thwart Vettel's early domination.<ref>{{cite news|last=Llewellyn|first=Craig|date=26 June 2011|title=Webber: Rule changes make no difference to results|work=Crash.net|url=http://www.crash.net/f1/news/170683/1/webber_if_lewis_wins_by_50s_its_not_down_to_regs.html|access-date=1 July 2011|archive-date=29 June 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110629105428/http://www.crash.net/f1/news/170683/1/webber_if_lewis_wins_by_50s_its_not_down_to_regs.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Nevertheless, he took pole with the fastest qualifying lap in ]'s history. Vettel dominated with his first ] of 2011, and won his sixth race out of eight.<ref>{{Cite news|last=Holt|first=Sarah|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/motorsport/formula_one/9522979.stm|title=Vettel beats Alonso in Valencia|date=26 June 2011|work=BBC Sport|access-date=19 March 2020|archive-date=17 February 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200217135003/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/motorsport/formula_one/9522979.stm|url-status=live}}</ref> The FIA implemented another rule change at the {{F1 GP|2011|British}}, targeting the blown diffusers. Red Bull believed the changes would cost them about half a second per lap.<ref>{{cite news|date=29 June 2011|title=Marko: Diffuser ban will cost Bulls|work=Planet F1|url=http://www.planet-f1.com/driver/18227/7009904/Marko-Diffuser-ban-will-cost-Bulls|access-date=1 July 2011|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120906023521/http://www.planet-f1.com/driver/18227/7009904/Marko-Diffuser-ban-will-cost-Bulls|archive-date=6 September 2012}}</ref> During the race, Vettel held off Webber for second place, who ignored a radio message from team principal ] to hold position.<ref>{{cite news|last=Noble|first=Jonathan|date=11 July 2011|title=Mark Webber says British GP team orders were 'unnecessary'|work=Autosport.com|url=http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/93033|access-date=11 July 2011|archive-date=14 July 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110714050737/http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/93033|url-status=live}}</ref> It was only the second time in the sport's history that a driver had finished second or higher in each of the first nine races of a season and won at least six of them.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://en.espnf1.com/f1/motorsport/story/54275.html|title=Vettel verging on Schumacher's records|last=Lynch|first=Steven|date=15 July 2011|website=ESPN UK|access-date=19 March 2020|archive-date=25 December 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131225172723/http://en.espnf1.com/f1/motorsport/story/54275.html|url-status=live}}</ref>
At ], both Vettel and Webber's cars were fitted with a new design of front wing. Vettel's front wing was damaged in the third practice session, and Webber's sole surviving example was removed and given to Vettel.<ref>{{cite news|last=Noble|first=Jonathan|author2=Beer, Matt |title=Webber unhappy with wing situation|publisher=]|work=Autosport|url=http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/85160|date=10 July 2010|accessdate=8 August 2010}}</ref> Vettel qualified in pole position ahead of his teammate, but suffered a puncture caused by driving wide off the track on the first lap of the race and fell to the tail of the field. He fought back to finish seventh while Webber took the victory. At the {{F1 GP|2010|German}} he took pole by 0.002 seconds, and finished in third position in the race, behind the Ferraris of Alonso and ], after a poor start. Since Ferrari swapped positions between the drivers in an apparent team order Vettel could have been handed the win, but the FIA let the result stand, then legalised team orders again. He also finished third in ] after serving a drive-through penalty for exceeding ten lengths behind the previous car, teammate Webber, under neutralised safety car conditions. In ], he had a tough race, hitting Button's car whilst attempting to pass, causing Button to retire. Vettel pitted and carried on, but then suffered a puncture whilst passing ] at the same place, completing a whole lap with a puncture. He eventually finished 15th, his lowest placing of the season (other than his retirements in Australia and Turkey). At ] he finished fourth after an engine problem scare, and at the {{F1 GP|2010|Singapore}}, Vettel qualified and finished second, sticking on Alonso's tail for most of the race, the entire weekend being very close between the two. He passed Button for fourth place in the championship. At the {{F1 GP|2010|Japanese}}, he dominated all practice sessions bar one, as it was postponed after heavy rain. He qualified on pole ahead of teammate Webber and went on to win with a lights-to-flag victory. Aged 23 years and 98 days, Vettel became the youngest Grand Prix driver to win at the same track on two occasions, having also won the Japanese Grand Prix at Suzuka in 2009. At the first {{F1 GP|2010|Korean}}, Vettel took pole and led the first 45 laps of the race before retiring with engine failure, handing victory to Alonso.


Vettel's run of fourteen successive front-row starts and eleven successive top two finishes ended at ], where he qualified third and finished fourth. In ], he took his tenth pole position of the year, in which he joined ] as the only driver to have taken ten pole positions in two separate seasons.<ref>{{cite news|last=Holt|first=Sarah|date=10 September 2011|title=Sebastian Vettel pips Lewis Hamilton to Monza pole position|work=BBC Sport|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/motorsport/formula_one/9586495.stm|access-date=21 September 2011|archive-date=11 May 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220511063150/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/motorsport/formula_one/9586495.stm|url-status=live}}</ref> A podium finish in ] secured his second successive title with four races remaining, making him the youngest ever double and back-to-back champion.<ref>{{cite news|last=Richards|first=Giles|date=9 October 2011|title=Sebastian Vettel secures back-to-back F1 world titles in Japan|work=The Guardian|url=https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2011/oct/09/sebastian-vettel-wins-world-title|access-date=10 October 2011|archive-date=16 December 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131216033826/http://www.theguardian.com/sport/2011/oct/09/sebastian-vettel-wins-world-title|url-status=live}}</ref> Vettel won the following race in ] to become the second driver to take at least ten wins in a season after Michael Schumacher.<ref>{{cite web|last=Allen|first=James|date=16 October 2011|title=Red Bull Constructors' Champions as Vettel wins Korean Grand Prix|url=http://www.jamesallenonf1.com/2011/10/red-bull-constructors-champions-as-vettel-wins-korean-grand-prix/|access-date=1 November 2011|work=Motorsport.com|archive-date=29 November 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181129184516/https://www.jamesallenonf1.com/2011/10/red-bull-constructors-champions-as-vettel-wins-korean-grand-prix/|url-status=dead}}</ref>&nbsp;He also helped to secure Red Bull's second successive World Constructors' Championship.<ref>{{Cite news|date=16 October 2011|title=Red Bull celebrate second title|work=BBC Sport|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/15326362|access-date=11 August 2020|archive-date=2 March 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210302024814/https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/15326362|url-status=live}}</ref> Vettel took his eleventh victory of the season in ], leading every lap from pole position, as well as setting the race's fastest lap to claim his first ].<ref>{{cite news|date=30 October 2011|title=Vettel eases to inaugural Indian victory|work=Formula 1|url=http://www.formula1.com/news/headlines/2011/10/12725.html|access-date=30 October 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111031092248/http://www.formula1.com/news/headlines/2011/10/12725.html|archive-date=31 October 2011}}</ref> Vettel broke the record for the most pole positions in a season at the season finale in ], after he clinched his 15th pole of the year.<ref>{{cite web|last=Benson|first=Andrew|date=26 November 2011|title=Sebastian Vettel beats Mark Webber to take record-breaking pole in Brazil|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/formula1/15903913|access-date=9 October 2012|website=BBC Sport|archive-date=18 December 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141218143229/http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/formula1/15903913|url-status=live}}</ref> He completed the year with 15 poles, 11 victories, and 17 podiums from 19 races; Vettel also earned a record total of 392 points.<ref>{{Cite web|date=16 December 2013|title=Insight: How close to Vettel did Webber get during five seasons at Red Bull?|url=https://www.motorsport.com/general/news/insight-how-close-to-vettel-did-webber-get-during-five-seasons-at-red-bull/3219931/|access-date=11 August 2020|website=Motorsport.com|archive-date=11 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201111231237/https://www.motorsport.com/general/news/insight-how-close-to-vettel-did-webber-get-during-five-seasons-at-red-bull/3219931/|url-status=live}}</ref>
At the {{F1 GP|2010|Brazilian}}, Vettel qualified second but took the lead at the first corner from the ] of ] and led for the entire race to victory. With Webber taking second place, and Alonso finishing third, Vettel went into the final race of the season with a 15-point deficit to Alonso, and a 7-point gap to Webber. With the 1–2 finish in Brazil, Vettel and Webber secured Red Bull Racing's first Formula One World Constructors' Championship. He won the {{F1 GP|2010|Abu Dhabi}} from pole again, to take the Drivers' Championship lead for the first time in his career and became the youngest ] in the sport's history.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2010/nov/14/sebastian-vettel-champion|title=Sebastian Vettel wins Formula One world championship in Abu Dhabi|date=14 November 2010|work=The Guardian |accessdate=15 November 2010|location=London}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/motorsport/formulaone/8132344/F1-Abu-Dhabi-Grand-Prix-2010-Red-Bulls-Sebastian-Vettel-is-crowned-Formula-One-world-champion.html|title=Red Bull's Sebastian Vettel is crowned Formula One world champion|date=14 November 2010|work=The Daily Telegraph |first=Tom|last=Cary|location=Yas Marina Circuit, Abu Dhabi|accessdate=15 November 2010}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://sports.espn.go.com/rpm/racing/f1/news/story?id=5805142|title=Sebastian Vettel is youngest F1 champ|date=14 November 2010|agency=]|publisher=]|accessdate=8 December 2010}}</ref> Following ] in the {{F1|1964}} season and ] in {{F1|1976}}, this was also only the third time in Formula One history when the World Champion had not been championship leader at any earlier point in the season.


==== 2012: Triple World Champion ====
====2011: Successful title defence, most poles in a season====
{{see also|2011 Formula One World Championship}}{{Refimprove section|date=February 2019}}], which was his fourth consecutive victory]]
After the postponement of the {{F1 GP|2011|Bahrain}}, Vettel started his title defence in the {{F1 GP|2011|Australian}} with pole position and a victory of 22 seconds over title rival ], who was nursing home his broken McLaren. Vettel continued his title defence in the {{F1 GP|2011|Malaysian}}, where he pipped Hamilton for pole position by a tenth of a second, and went on to win the race from Jenson Button. Vettel completed his third pole position of the season at the {{F1 GP|2011|Chinese}}, and appeared to be in dominating form for the majority of the race. However, poor tyre management haunted him in the last several laps, possibly being related to his inability to properly communicate with his team, as his radio was broken. He finished the race second, his championship lead cut to 21 points over Hamilton after three races.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,12433_6879510,00.html|work=]|publisher=]|date=17 April 2011|accessdate=21 April 2011|title=Hamilton stuns Vettel}}</ref>


Vettel started the {{F1|2012}} season with a second place at the {{F1 GP|2012|Australian}}, before he finished outside the points in ] following a collision with backmarker ]. Vettel and Horner criticised Karthikeyan's driving, with Vettel calling him an "idiot",<ref>{{cite news|last=Benson|first=Andrew|date=26 March 2012|title=Sebastian Vettel criticises 'idiot' backmarker in Malaysian GP|work=BBC Sport|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/formula1/17506568|access-date=31 March 2012|archive-date=30 March 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120330223024/http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/formula1/17506568|url-status=live}}</ref> and a "cucumber".<ref>{{cite news|date=25 March 2012|title=Vettel blames 'cucumber' Karthikeyan for puncture|work=ESPN UK|url=http://en.espnf1.com/malaysia/motorsport/story/74313.html|access-date=23 December 2012|archive-date=22 December 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121222103132/http://en.espnf1.com/malaysia/motorsport/story/74313.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Karthikeyan hit back, calling Vettel a "cry baby".<ref name="crybaby">{{cite news|last=Benson|first=Andrew|date=30 March 2012|title=Karthikeyan keen to move on from Vettel 'cry baby' comment|work=BBC Sport|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/formula1/17550940|access-date=31 March 2012|archive-date=30 March 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120330223000/http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/formula1/17550940|url-status=live}}</ref> Vettel crossed the line in first place at the {{F1 GP|2012|Bahrain}} to go top of the championship standings.<ref>{{Cite news|last=Benson|first=Andrew|date=22 April 2012|title=Sebastian Vettel beats Kimi Raikkonen to Bahrain GP win|work=BBC Sport|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/17806045|access-date=10 August 2020|archive-date=11 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201111170906/https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/17806045|url-status=live}}</ref> Three races without a podium place followed, before he retired at the {{F1 GP|2012|European}} after an alternator failure, dropping him to fourth in the standings.<ref>{{Cite news|last=Benson|first=Andrew|url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/formula1/18569752|title=European GP: Fernando Alonso wins brilliantly in Valencia|date=24 June 2012|work=BBC Sport|access-date=19 March 2020|archive-date=23 September 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200923071546/https://www.bbc.com/sport/formula1/18569752|url-status=live}}</ref> In ], Vettel finished second behind Alonso but received a 20-second time penalty after the race, as he was off the track when he overtook Button; Vettel dropped back to fifth.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Germany 2012|url=https://www.statsf1.com/en/2012/allemagne.aspx|access-date=11 August 2020|website=Stats F1|language=fr|archive-date=13 February 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210213043809/https://www.statsf1.com/en/2012/allemagne.aspx|url-status=live}}</ref> He started in 10th place but finished second in ] to climb up to second place in the championship.<ref>{{Cite news|last=Benson|first=Andrew|date=2 September 2012|title=Belgian GP: Jenson Button wins at Spa for McLaren|work=BBC Sport|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/19456632|access-date=11 August 2020|archive-date=4 July 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200704041653/https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/19456632|url-status=live}}</ref> Vettel then retired at the {{F1 GP|2012|Italian}} due to an alternator failure, which saw the gap to leader Alonso grow to 39 points with seven races remaining.<ref>{{Cite news|last=Benson|first=Andrew|date=9 September 2012|title=Italian GP: Lewis Hamilton wins dominantly at Monza for McLaren|work=BBC Sport|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/19532044|access-date=10 August 2020|archive-date=22 September 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200922130424/https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/19532044|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title=FIA Formula One World Championship Calendar 2012|url=http://www.fia.com/championship/formula-1-world-championship/2012/calendar|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130215191858/http://www.fia.com/championship/formula-1-world-championship/2012/calendar|archive-date=15 February 2013|access-date=10 August 2020|website=FIA}}</ref> He won next race in ], as he kept the lead until the 2-hour race limit was reached.<ref>{{Cite news|last=Benson|first=Andrew|date=23 September 2012|title=Singapore GP: Sebastian Vettel wins after Lewis Hamilton retires|work=BBC Sport|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/19692103|access-date=11 August 2020|archive-date=10 September 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200910213147/https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/19692103|url-status=live}}</ref> At the {{F1 GP|2012|Japanese}} he took his second career grand slam and coupled with Alonso's retirement, he cut the gap down to just four points.<ref>{{Cite news|last=Benson|first=Andrew|date=7 October 2012|title=Japanese GP: Sebastian Vettel wins as Fernando Alonso retires|work=BBC Sport|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/19860941|access-date=10 August 2020|archive-date=30 October 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201030025752/https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/19860941|url-status=live}}</ref> After winning at the {{F1 GP|2012|Korean}}, the ] brought another victory, as Vettel topped all three practice sessions before taking pole position and leading every lap of the race to win.<ref>{{Cite news|last=Benson|first=Andrew|date=28 October 2012|title=Indian GP: Sebastian Vettel wins ahead of Alonso to extend lead|work=BBC Sport|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/20115603|access-date=21 January 2019|archive-date=21 January 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190121200921/https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/20115603|url-status=live}}</ref>
The {{F1 GP|2011|Turkish}} started out poorly for Vettel, where he had very little practice time during the Friday free practice sessions, including a crash in the first session. Even with the limited practice, he claimed his fifth consecutive pole position and converted it into a win, extending his championship lead over Hamilton to 34 points. At the {{F1 GP|2011|Spanish}}, his pole position streak ended as his ] failed him during qualifying. His teammate Webber took pole, but Vettel went on to win the race by 0.6 seconds over Hamilton, with Hamilton chasing him down at the end on prime tyres, and Vettel having to deal with a frequently malfunctioning KERS.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.miltonkeynes.co.uk/sport/lewis_can_t_break_vettel_kers_1_2706038|work=]|publisher=]|date=23 May 2011|accessdate=24 May 2011|title=Lewis can't break Vettel KERS}}</ref> The following weekend, in the {{F1 GP|2011|Monaco}}, he took pole with the second fastest qualifying time in Monaco's history. Vettel was leading the race with a 5-second gap over second-placed Button. Due to a radio malfunction, the Red Bull pit crew was not prepared for Vettel when he pitted. The net result was that the pit stop was slow, and that he was sent out on the wrong tyres, handing the lead to Button as well. Vettel switched to a one-stop strategy, and stuck with one set of soft tyres for 56 laps. He was caught by Alonso and Button as his tyres deteriorated, but neither were able to pass him on the narrow streets of the Monte-Carlo circuit. With a few laps remaining, the race was red-flagged after ] required an ambulance after an accident. The suspended race allowed teams to change tyres and work on the cars, and when the race was restarted under the safety car, Vettel was able to retain the lead during the last few laps.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.grandprix.com/race/r845racereport.html |title=Drama on the Monaco streets |date=29 May 2011 |publisher=GP.com |access-date=30 May 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110601224924/http://www.grandprix.com/race/r845racereport.html |archive-date=1 June 2011 |dead-url=yes }}</ref>


During qualifying at the {{F1 GP|2012|Abu Dhabi}}, Vettel was told to stop the car due to a fuel pump issue; he was forced to start from the pit lane.<ref>{{Cite news|last=Benson|first=Andrew|date=3 November 2012|title=Abu Dhabi: Red Bull's Sebastian Vettel to start race from the pit lane|work=BBC Sport|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/20193545|access-date=11 August 2020|archive-date=12 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201112040933/https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/20193545|url-status=live}}</ref> From last place, Vettel fought his way back to finish in third place.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Beer|first=Matt|date=4 November 2012|title=Abu Dhabi GP: Raikkonen wins for Lotus, Vettel recovers to third|url=https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/104019/raikkonen-wins-for-lotus-in-abu-dhabi|access-date=11 August 2020|website=Autosport.com|archive-date=7 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200807153121/https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/104019/raikkonen-wins-for-lotus-in-abu-dhabi|url-status=live}}</ref> He started the last race in ] with a 13-point cushion against Alonso.<ref>{{Cite web|title=USA 2012 – Championship|url=https://www.statsf1.com/en/2012/etats-unis/championnat.aspx|access-date=21 January 2019|website=Stats F1|archive-date=21 January 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190121232625/https://www.statsf1.com/en/2012/etats-unis/championnat.aspx|url-status=live}}</ref> On the opening lap, Vettel spun after an incident with ]. Following changing weather conditions, Vettel climbed up to finish in sixth place to win the championship by three points and to become the youngest ever triple world champion.<ref name="BBCBazGP2012">{{cite web|last=Benson|first=Andrew|date=25 November 2012|title=Sebastian Vettel wins his third F1 world championship for Red Bull|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/formula1/20477032|access-date=25 November 2012|website=BBC Sport|archive-date=27 November 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121127001815/http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/formula1/20477032|url-status=live}}</ref> He also became the third driver to acquire three consecutive championships, after ] and Schumacher.<ref name="NYT-2012-11-26">{{cite news|last=Spurgeon|first=Brad|date=26 November 2012|title=Vettel Takes His Third Straight Formula One Title|work=The New York Times|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2012/11/26/sports/autoracing/26iht-prix26.html?_r=0|access-date=27 November 2012|archive-date=24 October 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141024043041/http://www.nytimes.com/2012/11/26/sports/autoracing/26iht-prix26.html?_r=0|url-status=live}}</ref>
]
In ], he took his sixth pole position in seven races ahead of ] and ]. Vettel kept his lead from the start of the race, and for the vast majority of the race he held on to it. The record six safety car periods due to the down-pouring rain and 2-hour race suspension profoundly hurt Vettel's chances of victory, however, as after every safety car restart, Vettel would lose the gap he had previously built up on the other drivers. With much fresher tyres, Button caught Vettel and began to pressure him in the last lap. Vettel slid on a damp part of the track at Turn 6, and Button used the opportunity to slip past him to take the victory. Vettel finished second, yet still extended his championship lead to 60 points ahead of Button.


==== 2013–2014: Record-breaking season and departure from Red Bull ====
At the {{F1 GP|2011|European}}, the ] began enforcing a controversial ban on engine mappings. It was believed by many in the press that this was an attempt by the FIA to thwart Vettel's domination of the season.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.crash.net/f1/news/170683/1/webber_if_lewis_wins_by_50s_its_not_down_to_regs.html|title=Webber: If Lewis wins by 50s, it's not down to regs|publisher=crash.net|date=26 June 2011|accessdate=1 July 2011}}</ref> The changes appeared to do little to hinder Vettel, as he took pole with the fastest qualifying lap in Valencia Street Circuit's history. He dominated the race with his first ] of 2011 and won his sixth race out of eight races. It was the first time in Formula One history that a driver had finished second or better in each of the first 8 races of a season and won at least 6 of them.
] at the ], despite team orders to maintain position]]
Vettel started the first two races of the {{F1|2013}} season on pole position, and at the {{F1 GP|2013|Malaysian}}, he lapped over 2.5 seconds faster than teammate Webber in qualifying during a wet session.<ref>{{cite news|last=Collantine|first=Keith|date=23 March 2013|title=Malaysian rain can't keep Vettel from pole again|work=F1 Fanatic|url=http://www.f1fanatic.co.uk/2013/03/23/2013-malaysian-grand-prix-qualifying-report/|access-date=29 March 2013|archive-date=26 March 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130326032920/http://www.f1fanatic.co.uk/2013/03/23/2013-malaysian-grand-prix-qualifying-report/|url-status=live}}</ref> He won the race, though not without controversy. Vettel ignored the ] and passed Webber for the lead. Webber was furious after the race and said that Vettel "will have protection as usual and that's the way it goes".<ref>{{cite news|last=Collantine|first=Keith|date=24 March 2013|title=Webber: Vettel will be 'protected' in team orders row|work=F1 Fanatic|url=http://www.f1fanatic.co.uk/2013/03/24/webber-vettel-protection-team-orders-row/|access-date=29 March 2013|archive-date=12 May 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130512145752/http://www.f1fanatic.co.uk/2013/03/24/webber-vettel-protection-team-orders-row/|url-status=live}}</ref> Team principal Horner, although unhappy with Vettel's actions, pointed out that Webber had defied team orders on several previous occasions. He acknowledged that the already fragile relationship between the two drivers had further broken down as a result of the incident.<ref>{{cite news|last=Benson|first=Andrew|date=24 March 2013|title=Sebastian Vettel in Mark Webber apology after Malaysia win|work=BBC Sport|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/formula1/21917254|access-date=29 March 2013|archive-date=13 November 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131113181838/http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/formula1/21917254|url-status=live}}</ref> Vettel claimed that he was not sorry for winning and that if the situation presented itself again, he would have passed Webber despite the order, adding that he felt Webber did not deserve to win the race.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Noble|first1=Jonathan|last2=Beer|first2=Matt|date=11 April 2013|title=Red Bull team orders row: Vettel says he would probably do it again|work=Autosport.com|url=http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/106631|access-date=11 April 2013|archive-date=31 May 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130531025412/http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/106631|url-status=live}}</ref>


Following wins in ] and ], his championship lead was cut at the {{F1 GP|2013|British}} as he was denied a likely win due to gearbox failure. Vettel bounced back to win his home race in ] for the first time. After he finished third in ], Vettel won the last nine races of the season, including grand slams in ] and ]. Vettel set the then-record for most consecutive race wins with nine and he became only the third man after ] and ] to take consecutive grand slams.<ref>{{Cite news|last=Moreira|first=Camila|date=24 November 2013|title=Vettel takes record ninth win in a row|publisher=Reuters|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/uk-motor-racing-prix-idUKBRE9AN0G120131124|access-date=3 April 2019|archive-date=3 April 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190403160610/https://www.reuters.com/article/uk-motor-racing-prix-idUKBRE9AN0G120131124|url-status=live}}</ref> He sealed his fourth world title at the {{F1 GP|2013|Indian}};<ref>{{cite news|last=Andrew|first=Benson|date=27 October 2013|title=Sebastian Vettel wins fourth F1 world title at the Indian GP|work=BBC Sport|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/formula1/24691160|access-date=27 October 2013|archive-date=11 November 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131111105349/http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/formula1/24691160|url-status=live}}</ref> before the race weekend, Formula One CEO ] stated that Vettel was "probably the best we've ever had".<ref>{{Cite web |date=23 October 2013 |title=Formula One CEO Bernie Ecclestone says Sebastian Vettel is 'probably the best we've ever had' |url=https://www.autoweek.com/racing/formula-1/a1941841/formula-one-ceo-bernie-ecclestone-says-sebastian-vettel-probably-best-weve-ever/ |access-date=15 November 2024 |website=Autoweek}}</ref>{{quote box
]
The second set of controversial mid-season changes were implemented at ], targeting the blown diffusers. Red Bull believed the changes cost them about half a second per lap.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.planet-f1.com/driver/18227/7009904/Marko-Diffuser-ban-will-cost-Bulls|title=Marko: Diffuser ban will cost Bulls|work=Planet F1|publisher=TEAMtalk media|date=29 June 2011|accessdate=1 July 2011|deadurl=yes|archiveurl=https://archive.is/20120906023521/http://www.planet-f1.com/driver/18227/7009904/Marko-Diffuser-ban-will-cost-Bulls|archivedate=6 September 2012}}</ref> Webber just edged Vettel for pole position by 0.032 seconds in qualifying. On race day, Vettel made a better start, immediately took the lead and led the first half of the race. A delay at one of his pit stops allowed Alonso to pass him in the pit lane and dropped Vettel back to third, behind Hamilton. Despite a malfunctioning KERS unit, he was able to jump Hamilton in the stops and held off the faster Webber, who ignored a radio message from team principal ] to hold position, for second place, extending his lead in the championship.<ref>{{cite news|last=Noble|first=Jonathan|title=Mark Webber says British GP team orders were 'unnecessary'|publisher=]|work=Autosport|url=http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/93033|date=11 July 2011|accessdate=11 July 2011}}</ref>

Vettel's run of fourteen successive front-row starts and eleven successive top two finishes ended at ], where he qualified third and finished fourth. ]'s mechanical grip beat ] in the wet in ], and despite leading into the first corner from pole, he was quickly passed by both Hamilton and Button. Vettel eventually finished second in the race, held in mixed conditions. In ], Vettel qualified on pole and won the race, his seventh victory of the season and seventeenth of his career. In victory, Vettel extended his lead in the championship to 92 points and, even with seven races left, his tally of 259 points surpassed his own record (from {{F1|2010}}) for the highest number of championship points accumulated in a season. At the {{F1 GP|2011|Italian}} at ], he took his tenth pole position of the year&nbsp;– joining ] as the only drivers to have taken ten pole positions in two separate seasons&nbsp;– and the 25th of his career,<ref>{{cite news|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/motorsport/formula_one/9586495.stm|title=Sebastian Vettel pips Lewis Hamilton to Monza pole position|first=Sarah|last=Holt|publisher=BBC Sport|date=10 September 2011|accessdate=21 September 2011}}</ref> and eventually won the race after passing Alonso, who had overtaken Vettel at the start. Vettel led every lap from pole position in ], despite a safety car period eliminating a 22-second lead that he had held. His ninth win of the season left only ] in championship contention, who was 124 points behind with five races remaining.

] where, with four races remaining in the season, he became the youngest double World Drivers' Champion]]
Vettel arrived in ] needing only a single championship point, tenth place, to secure his second championship. In qualifying, Vettel recorded his twelfth pole position of the season&nbsp;– his fifth in succession&nbsp;– edging Button by 0.009 seconds. In the race, Vettel held the lead until the second pit-stop phase, when Button used the undercut to get past.<ref>{{cite news|first=Emily|last=Benammar|url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/motorsport/formulaone/8816265/Japanese-Grand-Prix-2011-live.html|title=Japanese Grand Prix 2011: live|date=9 October 2011|work=The Daily Telegraph |accessdate=10 October 2011|location=London}}</ref> He remained second after a safety car restart, but because his tyres wore out not long after that, he slipped down to third behind Alonso. He tried to fight Alonso for the position, but after several unsuccessful passing attempts, his race engineer told him to hold position and defend his championship. This podium finish secured his second successive title with four races remaining, making him the youngest ever double world champion and also the youngest back-to-back champion, joining only eight other drivers who had won consecutive titles.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2011/oct/09/sebastian-vettel-wins-world-title|title=Sebastian Vettel secures back-to-back F1 world titles in Japan|date=9 October 2011|work=The Guardian |first=Giles|last=Richards|accessdate=10 October 2011|location=London}}</ref> In ], Vettel started second, but won the race&nbsp;– becoming the second driver to take at least ten wins in a season after ]<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.jamesallenonf1.com/2011/10/red-bull-constructors-champions-as-vettel-wins-korean-grand-prix/|first=James|last=Allen|authorlink=James Allen (journalist)|work=James Allen on F1|publisher=James Allen|date=16 October 2011|accessdate=1 November 2011|title=Red Bull Constructors' Champions as Vettel wins Korean Grand Prix}}</ref>&nbsp;– after overtaking Lewis Hamilton on the first lap, building a healthy gap for the rest of the race, and recording the fastest lap of the race on the final lap. He helped secure Red Bull's second successive ] in the process.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/formula_one/15326210.stm|title=Sebastian Vettel wins Korean Grand Prix from Lewis Hamilton|publisher=BBC Sport|date=16 October 2011|accessdate=21 October 2011|first=Sarah|last=Holt}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/formula_one/15326362.stm|title=Red Bull celebrate second constructors' title|publisher=BBC Sport|date=16 October 2011|accessdate=21 October 2011}}</ref> Vettel took his eleventh victory of the season in ], leading every lap from pole position, as well as setting the race's fastest lap on the final lap, despite Red Bull having detuned his engine in an effort not to risk the race victory.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.formula1.com/news/headlines/2011/10/12725.html |title=Vettel eases to inaugural Indian victory |publisher=Formula One |date=30 October 2011 |accessdate=30 October 2011 |first=Sarah |last=Holt |deadurl=yes |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20111031092248/http://www.formula1.com/news/headlines/2011/10/12725.html |archivedate=31 October 2011 |df= }}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.themotorreport.com.au/52769/f1-vettel-ignores-team-to-take-clean-sweep|title=Vettel Ignores Team To Take 'Clean Sweep'|work=The Motor Report|publisher=TMR Unit Trust|date=30 October 2011|accessdate=2 November 2011}}</ref>

At the {{F1 GP|2011|Abu Dhabi}}, Vettel took his fourteenth pole position of 2011 to equal the record of poles in a season set by ] in {{F1|1992}}.<ref>{{cite news|title=Vettel ties F1 record with 14 poles this season|url=http://usatoday30.usatoday.com/sports/motor/formula1/story/2011-11-12/vettel-wins-abu-dhabi-pole/51179448/1|work=]|date=12 November 2011|accessdate=9 October 2012}}</ref> Vettel had a good start to maintain the lead by the first corner, but at the second corner, a right rear puncture saw him go sliding off the track. He returned to the pits, but suspension damage forced his first retirement since the ]. Vettel then broke the record for the most poles in a season at the next round, the season finale in ].<ref>{{cite web|last=Benson|first=Andrew|title=Sebastian Vettel beats Mark Webber to take record-breaking pole in Brazil|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/formula1/15903913|publisher=BBC Sport (BBC)|date=26 November 2011|accessdate=9 October 2012}}</ref> He maintained his lead into the first corner but was slowed by gearbox trouble early in the race. He allowed teammate Webber to pass him as his problem worsened, but eventually finished second ahead of Button to complete a 1–2 sweep for the team upon Webber's only victory of the year. Vettel completed the year with 15 poles, 11 victories, and 17 podiums from 19 races; he also earned a record total of 392 points in the process.

====2012: Triple world champion====
{{see also|2012 Formula One World Championship}}
]]]
Vettel remained at Red Bull for the 2012 season,<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.redbullracing.com/cs/Satellite/en_INT/Article/F1-2012--Sebastian-Vettel-On-The-Season-Ahead-021243159170581|title=Sebastian Vettel on the Season Ahead|work=]|publisher=]|date=6 February 2012|accessdate=14 February 2012|deadurl=yes|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20120209075913/http://www.redbullracing.com/cs/Satellite/en_INT/Article/F1-2012--Sebastian-Vettel-On-The-Season-Ahead-021243159170581|archivedate=9 February 2012}}</ref> and was again partnered by Mark Webber.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://en.espnf1.com/fia/motorsport/story/65796.html|title=FIA publishes 2012 entry list|last=|first=|date=|website=ESPN UK|language=en|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=12 January 2019}}</ref> He scored a second-place finish at the opening race of the season in ].<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/formula1/17419682|title=Jenson Button wins Australian Grand Prix for McLaren|first=Andrew|last=Benson|publisher=BBC Sport|date=18 March 2012|accessdate=18 March 2012}}</ref> Vettel started fifth in ], promoted from sixth after ] suffered a five-place grid penalty.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.statsf1.com/en/2012/malaisie/grille.aspx|title=Malaysia 2012 - Starting grid|last=|first=|date=|website=www.statsf1.com|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=12 January 2019}}</ref> Vettel spent the majority of the rain-affected race in fourth place, but picked a puncture from a collision with the ] of ] on lap 47.<ref name=":1">{{Cite web|url=https://www.statsf1.com/en/2012/malaisie/tour-par-tour.aspx|title=Malaysia 2012 - Lap by lap|last=|first=|date=|website=www.statsf1.com|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=13 January 2019}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.racefans.net/2012/03/25/2012-malaysian-grand-prix-report/|title=Alonso holds off Perez for superb win in Malaysia|last=|first=|date=|website=www.racefans.net|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=13 January 2019}}</ref> He dropped to twelfth after pitting to replace the tyre, and finished eleventh after ] retired late in the race with an engine failure.<ref name=":1" /><ref name=":2">{{Cite web|url=https://www.statsf1.com/en/2012/malaisie/classement.aspx|title=Malaysia 2012 - Result|last=|first=|date=|website=www.statsf1.com|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=13 January 2019}}</ref> This was Vettel's first finish outside the points since the ];{{Citation needed|date=January 2019}} Karthikeyan was given a 20-second post-race penalty for his part in the collision, which dropped Karthikeyan from 21st to 22nd and last.<ref name=":2" />

After the race, Vettel and Red Bull boss ] criticised Karthikeyan's driving, with Vettel calling Karthikeyan an "idiot",<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/formula1/17506568|title=Sebastian Vettel criticises 'idiot' backmarker in Malaysian GP|first=Andrew|last=Benson|publisher=BBC Sport|date=26 March 2012|accessdate=31 March 2012}}</ref> and a "cucumber".<ref>{{cite news|url=http://en.espnf1.com/malaysia/motorsport/story/74313.html|title=Vettel blames 'cucumber' Karthikeyan for puncture|work=ESPN F1|publisher=ESPN Emea Ltd.|date=25 March 2012|accessdate=23 December 2012}}</ref> Karthikeyan hit back at Vettel, calling him a "cry-baby".<ref name=crybaby>{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/formula1/17550940|title=Karthikeyan keen to move on from Vettel 'cry baby' comment|first=Andrew|last=Benson|publisher=BBC Sport|date=30 March 2012|accessdate=31 March 2012}}</ref> Later, Karthikeyan decided to call a truce with Vettel, stating his respect for Vettel's abilities and saying "I think we have to deal with it in a mature way and forget about it."<ref name=crybaby/> Vettel qualified eleventh for the {{F1 GP|2012|Chinese}}; the first time he had qualified outside the top ten since the ],<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.sportinglife.com/others/news/story_get.cgi?STORY_NAME=others/12/04/14/AUTO_Chinese_Vettel.html&BID=678|title=We're doing our best&nbsp;– Vettel|work=Sporting Life|publisher=365 Media Group.|date=14 April 2012|accessdate=14 April 2012}}{{dead link|date=January 2018 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref> although he ran as high as 2nd with 7 laps remaining until tyre wear on a 2-stop strategy took its toll and he dropped to 5th by the flag.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.statsf1.com/en/2012/chine/tour-par-tour.aspx|title=China 2012 - Lap by lap|last=|first=|date=|website=www.statsf1.com|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=13 January 2019}}</ref>

]]]
Vettel qualified in pole position for the first time in 2012 at the {{F1 GP|2012|Bahrain}}.<ref name=":3">{{Cite web|url=https://www.statsf1.com/en/sebastian-vettel/pole.aspx|title=Sebastian VETTEL - Pole positions|last=|first=|date=|website=www.statsf1.com|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=13 January 2019}}</ref> Vettel was able to lead for most of the race, despite coming under pressure from ], and crossed the line in first place to take his first victory of the season; the result also saw Vettel go top of the drivers' standings for the first time in 2012.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.statsf1.com/en/2012/bahrein/en-tete.aspx|title=Bahrain 2012 - Laps led|last=|first=|date=|website=www.statsf1.com|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=13 January 2019}}</ref><ref name=":9">{{Cite web|url=https://www.statsf1.com/en/sebastian-vettel/victoire.aspx|title=Sebastian VETTEL - Wins|last=|first=|date=|website=www.statsf1.com|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=13 January 2019}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.statsf1.com/en/2012/bahrein/championnat.aspx|title=Bahrain 2012 - Championship|last=|first=|date=|website=www.statsf1.com|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=13 January 2019}}</ref> At the ], he maintained his championship lead, albeit only on countback, after a 6th-place finish having started 7th.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.statsf1.com/en/2012/espagne/championnat.aspx|title=Spain 2012 - Championship|last=|first=|date=|website=www.statsf1.com|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=13 January 2019}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.statsf1.com/en/2012/espagne/classement.aspx|title=Spain 2012 - Result|last=|first=|date=|website=www.statsf1.com|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=13 January 2019}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.statsf1.com/en/2012/espagne/grille.aspx|title=Spain 2012 - Starting grid|last=|first=|date=|website=www.statsf1.com|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=13 January 2019}}</ref> Vettel received a drive-through penalty for failing to slow for yellow flags during the race as well as having to change his front wing as a result of debris from an incident involving Michael Schumacher and Bruno Senna.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.statsf1.com/en/2012/espagne.aspx|title=Spain 2012|last=|first=|date=|website=www.statsf1.com|language=French|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=16 January 2019}}</ref> After an eventful race at ], he placed fourth, gaining 5 places from his ninth-place grid position.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.statsf1.com/en/2012/monaco/classement.aspx|title=Monaco 2012 - Result|last=|first=|date=|website=www.statsf1.com|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=16 January 2019}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.statsf1.com/en/2012/monaco/grille.aspx|title=Monaco 2012 - Starting grid|last=|first=|date=|website=www.statsf1.com|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=16 January 2019}}</ref>

]
Vettel claimed his 2nd pole position for the season in ], however he dropped to 3rd after the first pit stops and then trying to go the remaining distance of the same tyres, he fell back in the closing stages and had to make a late stop for new tyres.<ref name=":3" /><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.statsf1.com/en/2012/canada/tour-par-tour.aspx|title=Canada 2012 - Lap by lap|last=|first=|date=|website=www.statsf1.com|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=16 January 2019}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/results.html/2012/races/16/canada/pit-stop-summary.html|title=Standings|last=|first=|date=|website=Formula 1® - The Official F1® Website|language=en|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=16 January 2019}}</ref> He eventually came 4th.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/results.html/2012/races/16/canada/race-result.html|title=FORMULA 1 GRAND PRIX DU CANADA 2012 - RACE RESULT|last=|first=|date=|website=Formula 1® - The Official F1® Website|language=en|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=16 January 2019}}</ref> At the following race in ], he claimed his 33rd pole position, going 3rd equal with Jim Clark and Alain Prost in the all-time list.<ref name=":3" /><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.statsf1.com/en/statistiques/pilote/pole/nombre.aspx|title=Statistics Drivers - Pole positions - By number|last=|first=|date=|website=www.statsf1.com|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=16 January 2019}}</ref> However a 20-second lead in the first 20 laps was reduced to nothing by a safety car appearance.{{Citation needed|date=January 2019}} On the first lap of the restart, his car ground to a halt, with an alternator failure being the cause.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.statsf1.com/en/2012/europe/classement.aspx|title=Europe 2012 - Result|last=|first=|date=|website=www.statsf1.com|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=16 January 2019}}</ref> Vettel would have taken the lead in the standings- instead, he fell back to 4th behind Alonso (who won), Hamilton and Webber.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.statsf1.com/en/2012/europe/championnat.aspx|title=Europe 2012 - Championship|last=|first=|date=|website=www.statsf1.com|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=16 January 2019}}</ref>

At ], Vettel qualified 4th after a wet session which, at one point, had to be suspended for over 1 hour due to torrential rain.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.statsf1.com/en/2012/grande-bretagne/qualification.aspx|title=Britain 2012 - Qualifications|last=|first=|date=|website=www.statsf1.com|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=16 January 2019}}</ref> In the dry race he overcame a slow start, where he dropped to 5th, to finish 3rd behind Webber and Alonso.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.statsf1.com/en/2012/grande-bretagne/classement.aspx|title=Britain 2012 - Result|last=|first=|date=|website=www.statsf1.com|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=16 January 2019}}</ref> In ] he started second, but before the third pit-stop, he was attacked by Hamilton, who wanted to unlap himself, lost some time, and was overtaken by Button after the pit-stop.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.statsf1.com/en/2012/allemagne/grille.aspx|title=Germany 2012 - Starting grid|last=|first=|date=|website=www.statsf1.com|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=17 January 2019}}</ref><ref name=":4">{{Cite web|url=https://www.statsf1.com/en/2012/allemagne.aspx|title=Germany 2012|last=|first=|date=|website=www.statsf1.com|language=French|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=17 January 2019}}</ref> On the penultimate lap he passed Button and finished second behind Alonso.<ref name=":4" /> After the race, however, the stewards found that Vettel was off the track when he overtook Button and so they awarded him a 20-second time penalty which dropped him back to fifth.<ref name=":4" /> At the following race in Hungary, Vettel finished 4th after starting 3rd.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.statsf1.com/en/2012/hongrie/grille.aspx|title=Hungary 2012 - Starting grid|last=|first=|date=|website=www.statsf1.com|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=17 January 2019}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.statsf1.com/en/2012/hongrie/classement.aspx|title=Hungary 2012 - Result|last=|first=|date=|website=www.statsf1.com|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=17 January 2019}}</ref>

After the summer break, at the ], he fought back from a poor qualifying, where he was knocked out in Q2 to start 10th, and a poor start in which he had to avoid the big accident ahead of him.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.statsf1.com/en/2012/belgique/grille.aspx|title=Belgium 2012 - Starting grid|last=|first=|date=|website=www.statsf1.com|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=17 January 2019}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.statsf1.com/en/2012/belgique.aspx|title=Belgium 2012|last=|first=|date=|website=www.statsf1.com|language=French|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=17 January 2019}}</ref> Having ended the first lap in 12th, he managed to finish 2nd.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.statsf1.com/en/2012/belgique/tour-par-tour.aspx|title=Belgium 2012 - Lap by lap|last=|first=|date=|website=www.statsf1.com|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=17 January 2019}}</ref> At Round 13 in ], Vettel started 5th and was running 4th until he forced Fernando Alonso onto the grass, for which he received a drive-through penalty, dropping him to 9th.<ref name=":5">{{Cite web|url=https://www.statsf1.com/en/2012/italie/tour-par-tour.aspx|title=Italy 2012 - Lap by lap|last=|first=|date=|website=www.statsf1.com|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=17 January 2019}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/19532044|title=Italian GP: Lewis Hamilton wins dominantly at Monza for McLaren|last=|first=|date=9 September 2012|work=BBC|access-date=17 January 2019|language=en-GB}}</ref> Then, having recovered to 6th with 5 laps to go, the alternator on his car failed for the second time in the weekend.<ref name=":5" /><ref name=":6">{{Cite web|url=https://www.statsf1.com/en/2012/italie/classement.aspx|title=Italy 2012 - Result|last=|first=|date=|website=www.statsf1.com|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=17 January 2019}}</ref> Vettel was classified 22nd, with championship leader Alonso coming 3rd and Hamilton winning.<ref name=":6" /> The next race was the ], where Vettel qualified 3rd.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.statsf1.com/en/2012/singapour/grille.aspx|title=Singapore 2012 - Starting grid|last=|first=|date=|website=www.statsf1.com|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=17 January 2019}}</ref> He overtook Pastor Maldonado at the start before the leader Lewis Hamilton retired with a car failure, Vettel then kept the lead until the 2-hour race limit was reached.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.statsf1.com/en/2012/singapour.aspx|title=Singapore 2012|last=|first=|date=|website=www.statsf1.com|language=French|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=17 January 2019}}</ref> It was his first win in 10 races, ending his worst run since his maiden win (which came in his 22nd race).{{Citation needed|date=January 2019}}

At Suzuka for the ], Vettel took his 2nd career Grand Slam (Pole, Fastest Lap and lead every lap) and coupled with Alonso retiring on the first lap, he cut the gap down to just 4 points.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.statsf1.com/en/statistiques/pilote/divers/detail-sebastian-vettel--chelem.aspx|title=Statistics Drivers - Misc - Grand chelem - VETTEL Sebastian|last=|first=|date=|website=www.statsf1.com|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=18 January 2019}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.statsf1.com/en/2012/japon/classement.aspx|title=Japan 2012 - Result|last=|first=|date=|website=www.statsf1.com|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=18 January 2019}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.statsf1.com/en/2012/japon/championnat.aspx|title=Japan 2012 - Championship|last=|first=|date=|website=www.statsf1.com|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=18 January 2019}}</ref> On 14 October he won his third consecutive race at the Korean Grand Prix.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.statsf1.com/en/statistiques/pilote/victoire/consecutive.aspx|title=Statistics Drivers - Wins - Consecutively|last=|first=|date=|website=www.statsf1.com|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=18 January 2019}}</ref> He overtook his teammate Mark Webber, who took the pole, to finish the race ahead of him, making it a Red Bull 1–2 finish.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.statsf1.com/en/red-bull/double.aspx|title=Red Bull - One-two|last=|first=|date=|website=www.statsf1.com|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=21 January 2019}}</ref> With this win, Vettel took the lead in the overall championship from Ferrari's ].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.statsf1.com/en/2012/coree-du-sud/championnat.aspx|title=South Korea 2012 - Championship|last=|first=|date=|website=www.statsf1.com|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=21 January 2019}}</ref> The ] brought another victory, with Vettel topping all 3 practice sessions before taking pole position and leading every lap of the race to a comfortable win, ahead of teammate Mark Webber in 3rd&nbsp;– who lost his 2nd place when a KERS failure slowed him down.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/20115603|title=Indian GP: Sebastian Vettel wins ahead of Alonso to extend lead|last=|first=|date=28 October 2012|work=|access-date=21 January 2019}}</ref>

]]]

] presented one of Vettel's most controversial qualifying sessions of the season when, after setting the third fastest time in Q3, he was told to stop the car.<ref name=":7">{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/formula1/20193545|title=Abu Dhabi: Red Bull's Sebastian Vettel to start race from the pit lane}}</ref> A fuel pump issue was later found to be the source of this problem and the ensuing penalty meant Vettel was to start the race from last, but as Red Bull then decided to make changes to the car, he was forced to start from the pit lane.<ref name=":7" /> However, in the race, Vettel managed to fight his way back to 3rd place to complete the podium.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.statsf1.com/en/2012/abou-dhabi/classement.aspx|title=Abu Dhabi 2012 - Result|last=|first=|date=|website=www.statsf1.com|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=21 January 2019}}</ref> After a podium in the ] Vettel was well set up to win the championship in ].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.statsf1.com/en/2012/etats-unis/classement.aspx|title=USA 2012 - Result|last=|first=|date=|website=www.statsf1.com|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=21 January 2019}}</ref> Vettel started the race with a 13-point cushion against title contender ].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.statsf1.com/en/2012/etats-unis/championnat.aspx|title=USA 2012 - Championship|last=|first=|date=|website=www.statsf1.com|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=21 January 2019}}</ref> After a close eventful race full of spins, which included Vettel's opening lap incident with ], crashes and changing weather conditions, Vettel finished 6th while Alonso finished 2nd, resulting in Vettel winning the championship by three points.<ref name="BBCBazGP2012" /> This was Vettel's third consecutive championship, and at age 25 he became the youngest ever triple world champion,<ref name="BBCBazGP2012">{{cite web | url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/formula1/20477032 | title=Sebastian Vettel wins his third F1 world championship for Red Bull | publisher=BBC | date=25 November 2012 | accessdate=25 November 2012 | author=Benson, Andrew}}</ref> beating ]'s previous record. Senna won his third F1 world championship title in 1991 at age 31.<ref name="NYT-2012-11-26" /> Vettel also became the third driver to acquire three-consecutive championships, after ] and ].<ref name=NYT-2012-11-26>{{cite news |work= The New York Times |title= Vettel Takes His Third Straight Formula One Title |url= https://www.nytimes.com/2012/11/26/sports/autoracing/26iht-prix26.html?_r=0 |date= 26 November 2012 |accessdate= 27 November 2012 |author= Brad Spurgeon }}</ref>

====2013: Quadruple world champion, 13 wins, 9 wins in a row====
{{see also|2013 Formula One World Championship}}
] at the ], despite team orders to maintain position]]
Vettel started his fifth season with Red Bull Racing by qualifying on pole for the ],<ref>{{cite news|title=Australian GP qualifying postponed to Sunday morning|url=http://www.f1fanatic.co.uk/2013/03/16/australian-gp-qualifying-postponed-sunday-morning/|first=Keith|last=Collantine|work=F1 Fanatic|publisher=Keith Collantine|date=16 March 2013|accessdate=29 March 2013}}</ref> before going on to finish the race in third place, twenty-two seconds behind race winner ].<ref>{{cite news|title=2013 Formula 1 Rolex Australian Grand Prix&nbsp;– Results |url=http://www.formula1.com/results/season/2013/893/ |work=Formula1.com |publisher=] |date=17 March 2013 |accessdate=29 March 2013 |deadurl=yes |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20130320194903/http://www.formula1.com/results/season/2013/893/ |archivedate=20 March 2013 |df= }}</ref> He took pole again for the {{F1 GP|2013|Malaysian}} in dominant display of wet weather driving, lapping over 2.5 seconds faster than teammate Webber.<ref>{{cite news|title=Malaysian rain can't keep Vettel from pole again|url=http://www.f1fanatic.co.uk/2013/03/23/2013-malaysian-grand-prix-qualifying-report/|first=Keith|last=Collantine|work=F1 Fanatic|publisher=Keith Collantine|date=23 March 2013|accessdate=29 March 2013}}</ref> He went on to win the race, though not without controversy, after Vettel ignored ] not to pass teammate Mark Webber. Webber emerged from the pits a fraction of a second ahead of Vettel as they went side-by-side into the first corner. Although Red Bull told both drivers that they were to finish with Webber to take the win, after two laps Vettel eventually overtook Webber for the lead with eleven laps remaining in the race. Webber was furious after the race, saying Vettel "will have protection as usual and that’s the way it goes".<ref>{{cite news|title=Webber: Vettel will be 'protected' in team orders row|url=http://www.f1fanatic.co.uk/2013/03/24/webber-vettel-protection-team-orders-row/|first=Keith|last=Collantine|work=F1 Fanatic|publisher=Keith Collantine|date=24 March 2013|accessdate=29 March 2013}}</ref> Team principal ], although unhappy with Vettel's actions, pointed out that Webber had defied team orders on several previous occasions, as recently as ]. Horner acknowledged that the already fragile relationship between the two drivers had further broken down as a result of the incident.<ref>{{cite news|title=Sebastian Vettel in Mark Webber apology after Malaysia win|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/formula1/21917254|first=Andrew|last=Benson|work=BBC F1|publisher=]|date=24 March 2013|accessdate=29 March 2013|quote="Drivers are drivers", said Horner. "We've seen it the other way around as well at races in the past between our two drivers. They haven't been bosom buddies for a few years now. What Sebastian did today wasn't right. He acknowledged that. He has apologised. He took things into his own hands."}}</ref> Vettel apologised for his actions, claiming that he had not deliberately ignored the order despite the team's insistence that he had been made perfectly aware of the instruction to maintain his position.<ref>{{cite news|title=Malaysian GP: Red Bull sure Vettel flouted team order deliberately|url=http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/106356|first=Jonathon|last=Noble|work=Autosport.com|publisher=]|date=24 March 2013|accessdate=29 March 2013}}</ref> Vettel later recanted his apology, claiming that he was not sorry for winning and that if the situation presented itself again, he would have passed Webber in spite of the order, adding that he felt Webber did not deserve to win the race.<ref>{{cite news|title=Red Bull team orders row: Vettel says he would probably do it again|url=http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/106631|first1=Jonathan|last1=Noble|first2=Matt|last2=Beer|work=Autosport.com|publisher=]|date=11 April 2013|accessdate=11 April 2013}}</ref>

In the {{F1 GP|2013|Chinese}}, Vettel qualified 9th, after not setting a time in Q3, before finishing 4th, setting fastest lap and crossing the line two-tenths behind 3rd placed ]. Vettel won from second on the grid in ], passing ] in the opening laps. Vettel maintained the championship lead with 4th in ], and 2nd at the {{F1 GP|2013|Monaco}}. He won in dominant fashion at ], winning from pole position by 15 seconds and lapping everyone up to 5th, extending his lead to 36 points.

], where he took the first of nine consecutive victories]]
His lead was cut at the {{F1 GP|2013|British}} as he was denied a likely win due to gearbox failure, but he bounced back to win his home race in ] for the first time, despite pressure from Kimi Räikkönen and Romain Grosjean. In ], Vettel had to settle for 3rd behind Hamilton and Räikkönen, but wins in ] (from 2nd on the grid), ], ] and ] (all 3 from pole) put him 77 points clear with only 5 races to go. With grand slams at Singapore and Korea, he became only the third man after ] and ] to take consecutive grand slams. Vettel sealed his fourth world title at ] on 27 October.<ref>{{cite news|last=Andrew|first=Benson|title=Sebastian Vettel wins fourth F1 world title at the Indian GP|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/formula1/24691160|accessdate=27 October 2013|work=]|publisher=]|date=27 October 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url = http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/formulaone/article-2477944/Sebastian-Vettel-wins-Indian-Grand-Prix-lift-F1-world-title-fourth-time.html|title=Go fourth and prosper! Vettel joins greats after sealing title win at Indian Grand Prix|date=27 October 2013|work=Daily Mail|accessdate=29 October 2013|location=London}}</ref> By winning the season finale in ], Vettel set the record for Most consecutive race wins in Formula 1, with 9.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/uk-motor-racing-prix-idUKBRE9AN0G120131124|title=Vettel takes record ninth win in a row|date=2013-11-24|work=Reuters|access-date=2019-04-03|language=en}}</ref>
{{quote box
|quote = ''"It's very difficult for me personally, to receive boos, even though you haven't done anything wrong."'' |quote = ''"It's very difficult for me personally, to receive boos, even though you haven't done anything wrong."''
|source = Sebastian Vettel, on being booed on the podium.<ref name="Vettel Boo">{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/formula1/24707809|title=Sebastian Vettel says he feels 'hurt' after being booed by fans|publisher=BBC News |date=28 October 2013|accessdate=28 October 2013}}</ref> |source = Sebastian Vettel, on being booed on the podium.<ref name="Vettel Boo">{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/formula1/24707809|title=Sebastian Vettel says he feels 'hurt' after being booed by fans|website=BBC Sport|last=Benson|first=Andrew|date=28 October 2013|access-date=28 October 2013|archive-date=28 October 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131028175637/http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/formula1/24707809|url-status=live}}</ref>
|width = 22% |width = 22%
|align = left |align = right
|qalign = center |qalign = center
}} }}


On several occasions during the season, spectators ] Vettel. Although the booing was widely condemned by fellow drivers, the media and others in the paddock,<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www1.skysports.com/f1/news/24096/8938934/|title=Disgraceful disrespect&nbsp;– why the booing of Sebastian Vettel is simply not on|publisher=Sky F1 |date=24 September 2013|accessdate=18 November 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.racedepartment.com/2013/09/f1-to-boo-or-not-to-boo-opinion-roundup/|title=F1: To boo, or not to boo? Opinion roundup|publisher=Race department|date=23 September 2013|accessdate=18 November 2013|deadurl=yes|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20131127190343/http://www.racedepartment.com/2013/09/f1-to-boo-or-not-to-boo-opinion-roundup/|archivedate=27 November 2013}}</ref> Vettel revealed that it had a negative impact on him.<ref name="Vettel Boo"/> On several occasions during the season, spectators booed Vettel. The booing was widely condemned by fellow drivers, the media and others in the paddock,<ref>{{cite news|last=Brundle|first=Martin|date=24 September 2013|title=Disgraceful disrespect – why the booing of Sebastian Vettel is simply not on|work=Sky Sports|url=http://www1.skysports.com/f1/news/24096/8938934/|access-date=18 November 2013|archive-date=10 December 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131210173458/http://www1.skysports.com/f1/news/24096/8938934/|url-status=live}}</ref> and Vettel later revealed that it had a negative impact on him.<ref name="Vettel Boo"/>

Prior to the ], Red Bull's advisor ] expressed his wish to extend Vettel's contract for another two years to 2016.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://formula-one.speedtv.com/article/f1-helmut-marko-eyes-sebastian-vettel-contract-extension-to-2016/work=SPEEDTV.com|publisher=]|agency=GMM|date=5 October 2011|accessdate=9 October 2011|title=Marko eyes Vettel contract extension to 2016|deadurl=yes|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20120430012316/http://formula-one.speedtv.com/article/f1-helmut-marko-eyes-sebastian-vettel-contract-extension-to-2016/work=SPEEDTV.com|archivedate=30 April 2012}}</ref> However, on 11 June 2013, Vettel agreed to a one-year contract extension with Red Bull until the end of the 2015 season.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/formula1/22865133|title=Vettel extends Red Bull contract|publisher=]|date=13 June 2013}}</ref>


For the {{F1|2014}} season and beyond, drivers picked a unique car number to use for the remainder of their Formula One career; Vettel chose the number five. However, as reigning World Drivers' Champion, he carried number one throughout the season.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/112089|title=Formula 1 driver numbers revealed as FIA announces 2014 entry list|first=Jonathan|last=Noble|work=Autosport.com|date=10 January 2014|access-date=16 March 2014|archive-date=7 May 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170507031348/http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/112089|url-status=live}}</ref> Webber left the sport and was replaced by ], who was promoted from Toro Rosso.
====2014: A struggling season and departure from Red Bull====
{{see also|2014 Formula One World Championship}}
]]]
For the 2014 season and beyond, drivers picked a unique car number to use for the remainder of their Formula One career, Vettel chose the number five. However, as reigning World Drivers' Champion he carried number one throughout 2014.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/112089|title=Formula 1 driver numbers revealed as FIA announces 2014 entry list|first=Jonathan|last=Noble|work=]|publisher=]|date=10 January 2014|accessdate=16 March 2014}}</ref> After having Mark Webber (who retired from Formula One to race in the new World Endurance Championship) as a teammate for five years, Vettel's new teammate in 2014 was Australian ], who was promoted from the ] team.


After struggling with reliability issues throughout winter testing, the season did not start much better for Vettel. At the {{F1 GP|2014|Australian}}, software issues meant Vettel qualified in twelfth position<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.gpupdate.net/en/f1-news/307766/engine-software-issue-hinders-vettel/ |title=Engine software issue hinders Vettel |work=GPUpdate.net |publisher=GPUpdate |date=15 March 2014 |accessdate=16 March 2014 |deadurl=yes |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20141006101046/http://www.gpupdate.net/en/f1-news/307766/engine-software-issue-hinders-vettel/ |archivedate= 6 October 2014 |df= }}</ref> and forced him to retire from the race after just three laps.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/112952|title=Nico Rosberg dominates in Melbourne for Mercedes|first=Ben|last=Anderson|work=]|publisher=]|date=16 March 2014|accessdate=16 March 2014}}</ref> Reliability problems also forced Vettel to retire at the ] and ] Grands Prix. Vettel qualified on the front-row for the races in ], ], and ], and finished on the podium in Malaysia, ], ] and ]. On 4 October 2014, Red Bull Racing announced that Vettel would be leaving the team at the end of the 2014 season, one year before his contract was due to expire.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.infiniti-redbullracing.com/article/new-team-driver-line-2015|title=New Team driver line up for 2015|publisher=]|date=4 October 2014|accessdate=5 December 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150512173705/http://www.infiniti-redbullracing.com/article/new-team-driver-line-2015|archive-date=12 May 2015|dead-url=yes}}</ref> After the {{F1 GP|2014|Russian}}, he had been outqualified by a teammate over a season for the first time in his Formula One career. In addition to suffering reliability problems, throughout 2014 Vettel struggled to get to grips with the ],<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www1.skysports.com/f1/news/12433/9478167/sebastian-vettel-says-a-combination-of-factors-at-root-of-his-2014-struggles|title=Sebastian Vettel says a 'combination' of factors are at the root of 2014 struggles|first=James|last=Galloway|date=19 September 2014|accessdate=7 December 2014|work=]|publisher=]}}</ref> and Pirelli's 2014 tyres.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www1.skysports.com/f1/news/22058/9279295/mark-hughes-on-why-daniel-ricciardo-is-showing-sebastian-vettel-the-way-at-red-bull|title=Mark Hughes on why Daniel Ricciardo is showing Sebastian Vettel the way at Red Bull|first=Mark|last=Hughes|authorlink=Mark Hughes (journalist)|work=]|publisher=]|date=24 April 2014|accessdate=7 December 2014}}</ref> Vettel signed off the 2014 season, by becoming the first defending champion to fail to win a race in the following season since ] in {{f1|1998}}.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.thenational.ae/sport/formula-one/season-of-struggles-leaves-world-champion-vettel-in-rare-role-of-also-ran|title=Season of struggles leaves world champion Vettel in rare role of also-ran|date=5 September 2014|accessdate=7 December 2014|work=]|publisher=]|quote=Wind on the clock 10 months and Vettel, 27, has seven races of the 2014 season remaining to avoid becoming the first driver since Jacques Villeneuve in 1998 to fail to win at least once during a title defence.|first=Graham|last=Caygill}}</ref> Vettel struggled with reliability issues throughout winter testing, which forced him to retire at the opening {{F1 GP|2014|Australian}}.<ref>{{cite news|last=Anderson|first=Ben|date=16 March 2014|title=Nico Rosberg dominates in Melbourne for Mercedes|work=Autosport.com|url=http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/112952|access-date=16 March 2014|archive-date=20 March 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140320120204/http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/112952|url-status=live}}</ref> Reliability problems also forced Vettel to retire at the ] and ] Grands Prix. Vettel qualified on the front-row for the races in ], ] and ], and finished on the podium in Malaysia, ], ] and ]. After the {{F1 GP|2014|Russian}}, he had been outqualified by a teammate over a season for the first time in his Formula One career. In addition to suffering reliability problems, throughout 2014 Vettel struggled to get to grips with the ],<ref>{{cite news|last=Galloway|first=James|date=19 September 2014|title=Sebastian Vettel says a 'combination' of factors are at the root of 2014 struggles|work=Sky Sports|url=http://www1.skysports.com/f1/news/12433/9478167/sebastian-vettel-says-a-combination-of-factors-at-root-of-his-2014-struggles|access-date=7 December 2014|archive-date=27 October 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141027124716/http://www1.skysports.com/f1/news/12433/9478167/sebastian-vettel-says-a-combination-of-factors-at-root-of-his-2014-struggles|url-status=live}}</ref> and the ] tyres.<ref>{{cite news|last=Hughes|first=Mark|date=24 April 2014|title=Mark Hughes on why Daniel Ricciardo is showing Sebastian Vettel the way at Red Bull|work=Sky Sports|url=http://www1.skysports.com/f1/news/22058/9279295/mark-hughes-on-why-daniel-ricciardo-is-showing-sebastian-vettel-the-way-at-red-bull|access-date=7 December 2014|archive-date=27 August 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140827094520/http://www1.skysports.com/f1/news/22058/9279295/mark-hughes-on-why-daniel-ricciardo-is-showing-sebastian-vettel-the-way-at-red-bull|url-status=live}}</ref> He signed off the year by becoming the first defending champion to fail to win a race during a season since ] in {{f1|1998}}.<ref>{{cite news|last=Caygill|first=Graham|date=5 September 2014|title=Season of struggles leaves world champion Vettel in rare role of also-ran|work=The National|url=http://www.thenational.ae/sport/formula-one/season-of-struggles-leaves-world-champion-vettel-in-rare-role-of-also-ran|access-date=7 December 2014|archive-date=9 December 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141209234003/http://www.thenational.ae/sport/formula-one/season-of-struggles-leaves-world-champion-vettel-in-rare-role-of-also-ran|url-status=live}}</ref>


In October, Red Bull had announced that Vettel would be leaving the team at the end of the season to join ], one year before his contract was due to expire.<ref>{{cite web|date=4 October 2014|title=New Team driver line up for 2015|url=http://www.infiniti-redbullracing.com/article/new-team-driver-line-2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150512173705/http://www.infiniti-redbullracing.com/article/new-team-driver-line-2015|archive-date=12 May 2015|access-date=5 December 2014|website=Red Bull Racing}}</ref> Vettel replaced Alonso and partnered his friend Kimi Räikkönen.<ref>{{Cite news|date=20 November 2014|title=Sebastian Vettel: German joins Ferrari as Fernando Alonso exits|work=BBC Sport|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/30128844|access-date=11 August 2020|archive-date=20 November 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221120191226/https://www.bbc.com/sport/formula1/30128844|url-status=live}}</ref> Vettel mentioned he would like to drive for Ferrari at some point in his career and was already rumoured in 2012 to have a non-binding pre-contract, with options, to join them in 2014.<ref>{{cite news|last=Benson|first=Andrew|date=21 June 2012|title=Fernando Alonso says he would team up with Lewis Hamilton|work=BBC Sport|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/formula1/18542058|access-date=21 June 2012|archive-date=21 June 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120621205621/http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/formula1/18542058|url-status=live}}</ref> He was denied an early release from his Red Bull contract to test the ] in ].<ref>{{cite web|last1=Kuntschik|first1=Gerhard|last2=Noble|first2=Jonathan|date=15 October 2014|title=Red Bull won't release Vettel for early Ferrari test|url=http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/116359|access-date=5 December 2014|website=Autosport.com|archive-date=18 October 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141018093040/http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/116359|url-status=live}}</ref> In spite of this, Vettel was present at the Ferrari test – although not driving the car – but Red Bull did not enforce any sanctions.<ref>{{cite news|last=Young|first=Byron|date=27 November 2014|title=Sebastian Vettel 'broke Red Bull contract terms' by visiting Ferrari garage at Abu Dhabi test|work=The Daily Mirror|url=https://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/formula-1/sebastian-vettel-broke-red-bull-4705372|access-date=8 September 2015|archive-date=28 March 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150328044841/http://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/formula-1/sebastian-vettel-broke-red-bull-4705372|url-status=live}}</ref> Vettel instead made his first appearance in November, completing nearly 100 laps in the ] around the test track of ].<ref>{{Cite web|date=1 December 2014|title=Four-time F1 champion Sebastian Vettel settles in at Ferrari|url=http://autoweek.com/racing/formula-1/a1911911/four-time-f1-champion-sebastian-vettel-settles-ferrari/|access-date=11 August 2020|website=Autoweek|archive-date=17 January 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210117060720/https://www.autoweek.com/racing/formula-1/a1911911/four-time-f1-champion-sebastian-vettel-settles-ferrari/|url-status=live}}</ref>
===Ferrari (2015–)===
] debuting for Ferrari]]


=== Ferrari (2015–2020) ===
{{quote box {{quote box
|quote = ''The next stage of my Formula 1 career will be spent with Scuderia Ferrari and for me that means the dream of a lifetime has come true. When I was a kid, Michael Schumacher in the red car was my greatest idol and now it's an incredible honour to finally get the chance to drive a Ferrari. I already got a small taste of what the Ferrari spirit means, when I took my first win at Monza in 2008, with an engine from the Prancing Horse built in Maranello. The Scuderia has a great tradition in this sport and I am extremely motivated to help the team get back to the top. I will put my heart and soul into making it happen.'' |quote = ''The next stage of my Formula 1 career will be spent with Scuderia Ferrari and for me that means the dream of a lifetime has come true. When I was a kid, Michael Schumacher in the red car was my greatest idol and now it's an incredible honour to finally get the chance to drive a Ferrari. I already got a small taste of what the Ferrari spirit means, when I took my first win at Monza in 2008, with an engine from the Prancing Horse built in Maranello. The Scuderia has a great tradition in this sport and I am extremely motivated to help the team get back to the top. I will put my heart and soul into making it happen.''
Line 199: Line 190:
}} }}


==== 2015–2016: Returning to the top step ====
Vettel mentioned he would like to drive for ] at some point in his career and was rumoured to have a non-binding pre-contract, with options, to join them in 2014.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/formula1/18542058|title=Fernando Alonso says he would team up with Lewis Hamilton|first=Andrew|last=Benson|work=]|publisher=BBC|date=21 June 2012|accessdate=21 June 2012|quote=It has emerged that Vettel and Ferrari have some form of pre-contract, which has options on both sides and which is dependent on the team's performance in 2013. The precise details are not known.}}</ref> Red Bull believed he would stay with the team for as long as they supplied a competitive car.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/formulaone/article-1366077/Sebastian-Vettel-shuns-Ferrari-commit-Red-Bull-2014.html|work=Daily Mail |publisher=]|date=14 March 2011|accessdate=2 June 2011|title=I've got wings! Sebastian Vettel shuns Ferrari to commit to Red Bull to 2014|location=London}}</ref> His contract extension to the end of 2015 seemed to end any discussion that Vettel was about to make the Ferrari move.
], where he took his maiden win for Ferrari]]
Vettel made his Ferrari debut by finishing third in the {{F1 GP|2015|Australian}}.<ref>{{cite web|date=15 March 2015|title=Hamilton wins Australian race of attrition|url=http://www.formula1.com/content/fom-website/en/latest/headlines/2015/3/hamilton-wins-australian-race-of-attrition.html|access-date=23 March 2015|website=Formula 1|archive-date=3 May 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150503120324/http://www.formula1.com/content/fom-website/en/latest/headlines/2015/3/hamilton-wins-australian-race-of-attrition.html|url-status=live}}</ref> He followed that up with winning the {{F1 GP|2015|Malaysian}},<ref>{{cite news|last=Galloway|first=James|date=29 March 2015|title=Malaysia GP: Sebastian Vettel beats Mercedes for first Ferrari win|work=Sky Sports|url=http://www1.skysports.com/f1/news/12513/9780634|access-date=29 March 2015|archive-date=13 February 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180213021732/http://www.skysports.com/f1/news/12513/9780634|url-status=live}}</ref> his first race victory for over a year and the first win for Ferrari for almost two years. After the race, an emotional Vettel paid tribute to Schumacher, saying that his hero's achievements with Ferrari made the first win all the more special.<ref>{{cite news|last=Wise|first=Mike|date=30 March 2015|title=Sebastian Vettel pays tribute to 'hero' Michael Schumacher after Malaysia GP win|work=Sky Sports|url=http://www1.skysports.com/f1/news/24182/9781924/sebastian-vettel-pays-tribute-to-hero-michael-schumacher-after-malaysia-gp-win|access-date=30 March 2015|archive-date=31 March 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150331123306/http://www1.skysports.com/f1/news/24182/9781924/sebastian-vettel-pays-tribute-to-hero-michael-schumacher-after-malaysia-gp-win|url-status=live}}</ref>


He won the {{F1 GP|2015|Hungarian}} to remain a championship contender after he started from third on the grid. He dedicated his victory to the driver ], who died the week prior from injuries sustained in 2014.<ref>{{cite news|last=Barretto|first=Lawrence|date=26 July 2015|title=Sebastian Vettel wins thrilling Hungarian Grand Prix|work=Autosport.com|url=http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/120113|access-date=26 July 2015|archive-date=23 May 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160523022702/http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/120113|url-status=live}}</ref> At the halfway point of the season, Vettel was 42 points behind championship leader and ] driver Hamilton.<ref>{{cite news|last=Benson|first=Andrew|date=27 July 2015|title=Sebastian Vettel: Ferrari will try to make the impossible possible'|work=BBC Sport|url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/0/formula1/33679557|access-date=28 July 2015|archive-date=28 July 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150728211757/http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/formula1/33679557|url-status=live}}</ref> Vettel was in third place in ] when his right rear blew at high speed on the penultimate lap, likely ending any title chances given Hamilton's win. After the race, he ranted about the 'unacceptable' and 'unsafe' Pirelli tyres that could have caused him serious injury.<ref>{{cite news|date=23 August 2015|title=Belgian F1 GP: Furious Sebastian Vettel says Pirelli 'unacceptable'|work=Autosport.com|url=http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/120448|access-date=23 August 2015|archive-date=26 August 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150826001526/http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/120448|url-status=live}}</ref>
On the day Vettel and Red Bull announced parting ways, team principal ] announced that Vettel was going to sign with Ferrari.<ref name="Autosport">{{cite news|title =Red Bull: Sebastian Vettel announced Ferrari intentions on Friday| publisher = Autosport| url = http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/116151| date = 4 October 2014| accessdate = 4 October 2014}}</ref> From there it took from early October to 20 November for Ferrari to announce a three-year contract with Vettel.<ref name="Welcome Sebastian"/> At the same time, Ferrari announced that Vettel's long-time championship rival ] would be departing the team at the end of the season; meaning Vettel would partner ] at the team.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://formula1.ferrari.com/news/fernando|title=Thank you Fernando|publisher=]|accessdate=20 November 2014}}</ref> Alonso's departure two years before his contract expiry opened the Ferrari door for Vettel.


Vettel came home second in the {{F1 GP|2015|Italian}}, his first race with Ferrari at the team's home soil.<ref>{{cite news|last=Beer|first=Matt|date=6 September 2015|title=Vettel slams talk of F1 losing Monza|work=Autosport.com|url=http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/120685|access-date=6 September 2015|archive-date=8 September 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150908173708/http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/120685|url-status=live}}</ref> He then took his first pole with the team at the ],<ref>{{cite news|last=Anderson|first=Ben|date=19 September 2015|title=Sebastian Vettel takes pole for the Singapore Grand Prix|work=Autosport.com|url=http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/120887|access-date=19 September 2015|archive-date=21 September 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150921163113/http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/120887|url-status=live}}</ref> Ferrari's first pole for three years. Vettel went on to win the race, and with Hamilton retiring, he closed to within 49 points with seven races remaining.<ref>{{cite news|last=Benson|first=Andrew|date=20 September 2015|title=Sebastian Vettel wins in Singapore as Lewis Hamilton retires|work=BBC Sport|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/formula1/34308250|access-date=20 September 2015|archive-date=20 September 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150920230224/http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/formula1/34308250|url-status=live}}</ref> Vettel ended the season in third place, however, with three wins and 13 podiums; he declared the season as a 'miracle'.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Barretto|first1=Lawrence|last2=Freeman|first2=Glenn|date=29 November 2015|title=Sebastian Vettel declares Ferrari's F1 year a 'miracle'|work=Autosport.com|url=http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/122061|access-date=29 November 2015|archive-date=4 December 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151204155408/http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/122061|url-status=live}}</ref>
Vettel was denied an early release from his Red Bull contract to test the 2014 Ferrari car in ] post-race.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/116359|title=Red Bull won't release Vettel for early Ferrari test|publisher=]|date=15 October 2014|accessdate=5 December 2014}}</ref> In spite of this Vettel technically breached his contract being at the test with Ferrari – although not driving the car but Red Bull did not enforce any sanctions.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/formula-1/sebastian-vettel-broke-red-bull-4705372|last=Young|first=Byron|title=Sebastian Vettel 'broke Red Bull contract terms' by visiting Ferrari garage at Abu Dhabi test|publisher=The Daily Mirror|date=27 November 2014|accessdate=8 September 2015}}</ref> Vettel instead made his first appearance at the Ferrari factory over the weekend of 29–30 November, completing nearly 100 laps around the test track of ] in the ] as well as performing simulator work and completing his first official interview as a Ferrari driver.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://formula1.ferrari.com/news/vettel-a-special-feeling|title=Vettel: A special feeling|publisher=]|date=1 December 2014|accessdate=5 December 2014}}</ref> According to Ferrari's official website, Vettel did however try the simulated ] in the team's simulator program.


After a third-place finish at the ],<ref>{{cite news|last=Lines|first=Chris|date=20 March 2016|title=Rosberg beats Hamilton in season-opening Australian GP|agency=Associated Press|url=http://racing.ap.org/article/rosberg-beats-hamilton-season-opening-australian-gp|access-date=20 March 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160320153242/http://racing.ap.org/article/rosberg-beats-hamilton-season-opening-australian-gp|archive-date=20 March 2016}}</ref> Vettel's participation in ] ended without starting as his car broke down on the formation lap.<ref>{{cite web|last=Reiman|first=Samuel|date=3 April 2016|title=Nico Rosberg wins Bahrain GP while Hamilton, Vettel hit trouble|url=http://www.foxsports.com/motor/story/f1-bahrain-results-recap-nico-rosberg-mercedes-040316|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160422182011/http://www.foxsports.com/motor/story/f1-bahrain-results-recap-nico-rosberg-mercedes-040316|archive-date=22 April 2016|access-date=4 April 2016|website=Fox Sports}}</ref> At the {{f1 gp|2016|Chinese}}, Vettel collided with teammate Räikkönen on the first lap, but both were able to continue. He blamed Red Bull driver ] for the collision, labelling him a "madman" and described his overtaking manoeuvre as "suicidal".<ref>{{cite web|last1=Parkes|first1=Ian|last2=Beer|first2=Matt|date=17 April 2016|title=Vettel confronts Kvyat over 'suicidal' driving at Chinese GP|url=http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/123815|access-date=21 April 2016|website=Autosport|archive-date=16 July 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160716160443/http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/123815|url-status=live}}</ref> At the {{F1 GP|2016|Russian}}, Vettel retired on the first lap after two consecutive collisions with Kvyat.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Rencken|first1=Dieter|last2=Beer|first2=Matt|date=1 May 2016|title=Kvyat expecting backlash after Russian Grand Prix clash with Vettel|url=http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/124060|access-date=15 May 2016|website=Autosport|archive-date=21 July 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160721035801/http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/124060|url-status=live}}</ref> At the {{F1 GP|2016|Mexican}}, Vettel attempted to overtake Red Bull driver ], but after Verstappen ran off the track and rejoined ahead of him, Vettel verbally attacked him and race director ], for which he later apologised.<ref>{{cite web|last=Allen|first=James|date=30 October 2016|title=Moving under braking: The net widens as Daniel Ricciardo accuses Sebastian Vettel|url=https://www.jamesallenonf1.com/2016/10/moving-under-braking-the-net-widens-as-daniel-ricciardo-accuses-sebastian-vettel/|access-date=3 December 2017|website=Motorsport.com|archive-date=15 October 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171015000342/https://www.jamesallenonf1.com/2016/10/moving-under-braking-the-net-widens-as-daniel-ricciardo-accuses-sebastian-vettel/|url-status=dead}}</ref> Vettel then blocked Red Bull's Ricciardo by moving in the braking zone, and was given a ten-second penalty and two points on his licence.<ref>{{Cite news|last=Benson|first=Andrew|date=31 October 2016|title=Mexican Grand Prix: Sebastian Vettel loses third place under dangerous driving rule|work=BBC Sport|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/37819437|access-date=10 August 2020|archive-date=30 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210730112804/https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/37819437|url-status=live}}</ref> Although he achieved seven podium finishes during the season, Vettel did not win any races in 2016.<ref name=MMBio/>
====2015: Returning to the top step, a threat to Mercedes====


==== 2017–2018: Title battles versus Hamilton ====
{{see also|2015 Formula One World Championship}}
], where he took his maiden win for Ferrari after two races.]]

Vettel made his Ferrari début by finishing third in the {{F1 GP|2015|Australian}} after overtaking ] for the position during the pit stop window.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.formula1.com/content/fom-website/en/latest/headlines/2015/3/hamilton-wins-australian-race-of-attrition.html|title=Hamilton wins race of attrition|publisher=Formula One|accessdate=23 March 2015|date=15 March 2015}}</ref> The previous day he had narrowly outqualified teammate ] for fourth on the grid. Vettel followed that up with winning the {{F1 GP|2015|Malaysian}},<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www1.skysports.com/f1/news/12513/9780634|title=Malaysia GP: Sebastian Vettel beats Mercedes for first Ferrari win|first=James|last=Galloway|publisher=Sky Sports|date=29 March 2015|accessdate=29 March 2015}}</ref> his first race win for over a year and the first win for Ferrari for almost two years. It was also his 40th ] win, putting him one win behind ], the 3rd-placed driver on the all-time list. After the win, an emotional Vettel paid tribute to Michael Schumacher, saying that his hero's achievements with Ferrari made the first win all the more special.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www1.skysports.com/f1/news/24182/9781924/sebastian-vettel-pays-tribute-to-hero-michael-schumacher-after-malaysia-gp-win|title=Sebastian Vettel pays tribute to 'hero' Michael Schumacher after Malaysia GP win|first=Mike|last=Wise|publisher=Sky Sports|date=30 March 2015|accessdate=30 March 2015}}</ref> Vettel also stated his goal was to try to win the championship. Mercedes's executive director ] admitted at the same time that Vettel was a title contender, saying that Ferrari's recovery over the winter was 'incredible'.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www1.skysports.com/f1/news/24182/9780714/sebastian-vettel-targets-the-world-championship-after-shock-win|title=Sebastian Vettel targets the world championship after shock win|first=Pete|last=Gill|publisher=Sky Sports|date=30 March 2015|accessdate=30 March 2015}}</ref> Vettel ran both Mercedes cars close for the first half of the race in ], but eventually had to settle for third – his third successive podium – which was a result that both Vettel and the team admitted was always the most likely on that particular occasion.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/118480|first=Jonathan|last=Noble|title=Chinese GP: Ferrari fully expected defeat by Mercedes|date=12 April 2015|accessdate=12 April 2015|work=]|publisher=]}}</ref>

Vettel was involved in a minor tangle with ] during practice for the {{F1 GP|2015|Bahrain}}, damaging his front wing coming out of the pits. Vettel claimed the impact happened because of a brake issue that failed to slow the car down saying 'something broke on the front right' on the team radio.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www1.skysports.com/f1/news/12514/9809933|first=James|last=Galloway|title=Bahrain GP P2: Nico Rosberg leads Mercedes 1–2 ahead of Ferraris|date=17 April 2015|accessdate=17 April 2015}}</ref> In spite of his claims, the incident was investigated by the race stewards. Both Vettel and Pérez were cleared of any wrongdoing later that evening, and so escaped any penalties.<ref>{{cite tweet|user=F1|author=Formula 1|number=589122444574597121|date=17 April 2015|title=Vettel/Perez collision: Stewards decide no driver wholly or predominantly to blame, no further action should be taken. #F1 #BahrainGP}}</ref> The rest of the weekend was mixed for Vettel, who qualified on the front row, but had several issues and off-track escapades during the race before being stuck behind ]' ] and having to settle for fifth.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www1.skysports.com/f1/news/12514/9813887|first=James|last=Galloway|title=Bahrain GP: Lewis Hamilton claims another win ahead of duelling rivals|publisher=Sky Sports|date=19 April 2015|accessdate=19 April 2015}}</ref> Given that he had qualified on the front row and that teammate Räikkönen was second, the result was somewhat underwhelming, and he dropped to third place in the championship as a result. Vettel commented that he lost his rhythm during the race and did not have enough confidence in the rear end of the car, but nevertheless remained positive about the performance potential of the car.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/118604?|first=Ben|last=Anderson|title=F1 Bahrain: Sebastian Vettel says he struggled for rhythm|date=19 April 2015|accessdate=20 April 2015}}</ref> Before his front wing damage, Vettel had twice overtaken ] for second place during pit stops, only to immediately be pegged back. Vettel was in second for a long spell during the {{F1 GP|2015|Spanish}} but due to a change of pit stop strategy, Lewis Hamilton got past and pulled away, leaving Vettel in third at the end of the race.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/118901|first=Lawrence|last=Barretto|title=Spanish GP: Mercedes' dominant Nico Rosberg ends F1 win drought|publisher=Autosport|accessdate=10 May 2015}}</ref> He finished second in ], having run very close to eventual winner Rosberg for most parts of the race. Mercedes made a strategic error in bringing dominant leader Hamilton in for new tyres at the late safety car, placing him right behind Vettel. The duel that followed made Vettel fall back from Rosberg, but he managed to hold off Hamilton to finish an unlikely second. In ], Vettel got his lowest qualifying position of the season, qualifying in 18th, and then received a five place grid penalty for overtaking under red flags in practice 3 that morning. The race, however, was a success, as he finished 5th behind teammate Räikkönen.
], a race he would go on to win.]]
Following a 4th in Austria and 3rd at Silverstone that appeared to edge Vettel further away from a title challenge, he rebounded with a commanding win in the {{F1 GP|2015|Hungarian}}, after a superb start from 3rd on the grid, which saw him slice past both Mercedes cars and retain the lead throughout. The win was Vettel's first ever at the ] and equalled ]'s total of 41 Formula One victories. It was dedicated to ] who died the week prior from injuries sustained in 2014.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/120113|title=Sebastian Vettel wins thrilling Hungarian Grand Prix|last=Barretto|first=Lawrence|date=26 July 2015|accessdate=26 July 2015}}</ref> At the halfway point of the season, Vettel was 42 points behind championship leader Hamilton, and said the team aimed to make what was seen as 'impossible' possible during the second half of the season. He however accepted a lot of work was needed to be done to catch up.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/0/formula1/33679557|title=Sebastian Vettel: Ferrari will try to 'make the impossible possible'|last=Benson|first=Andrew|date=27 July 2015|accessdate=28 July 2015}}</ref> Vettel looked set for third in ] after a long stint on the supposedly conservative medium tyre when his right rear blew at high speed on the penultimate lap, likely ending any title chances given Hamilton won. After the race he went on a furious rant about control tyre manufacturer ] and the 'unacceptable' and 'unsafe' tyres that could have caused him serious injury had the explosion occurred in the Eau Rouge corner just before where it actually occurred and since it was the second such blowout at high speed during the weekend (the first befell Nico Rosberg during practice). Vettel was also unhappy with Pirelli's suggestion that the failures were due to the drivers going wide picking up debris, saying he never did.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/120448|title=Furious Sebastian Vettel says Pirelli 'unacceptable|publisher=Autosport|date=23 August 2015|accessdate=23 August 2015}}</ref>
], where he took his third victory of the season]]
Vettel came home second in the ] at Monza, the first race for him with Ferrari at the team's home soil. Amid a contract dispute regarding the venue's future Vettel once again went on the rampage and said that the race could not be lost and would 'rip the heart out of Formula One' if it did. He also stated that he regarded his first podium for Ferrari at Monza as 'the best second place of his life'.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/120685|last=Beer|first=Matt|title=Vettel slams talk of F1 losing Monza|publisher=Autosport|date=6 September 2015|accessdate=6 September 2015}}</ref> Vettel then took his first Ferrari pole at the ].<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/120887|last=Anderson|first=Ben|title=Sebastian Vettel takes pole for the Singapore Grand Prix|publisher=Autosport|date=19 September 2015|accessdate=19 September 2015}}</ref> It was the team's first pole for three years, and first dry pole since at the same venue five years earlier. Vettel was 0.543 seconds ahead of ] in second. He went on to win the race from Ricciardo, thus surpassing ]'s victory count for his 42nd career win, moving him into third on the all-time list.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/formula1/34308250|last=Benson|first=Andrew|title=Sebastian Vettel wins in Singapore as Lewis Hamilton retires|publisher=BBC Sport|date=20 September 2015|accessdate=20 September 2015}}</ref> With championship leader Hamilton retiring, Vettel closed to within 49 points with seven races remaining. The title challenge once again diminished in the next race in ]. Vettel did however score his tenth podium finish of the year, finishing third behind Hamilton and Rosberg at a track with significantly different attributes to Singapore. Vettel scored another second place and with fastest lap of race at ] moving him to second place in Drivers' Championship following Nico Rosberg's retirement in the early parts of the race. In the ] Vettel started from 13th due to an engine change penalty, but still charged his way to a podium, even challenging Rosberg for second on the final lap.

The third last race of the season in ] was a major disappointment, with Vettel being punted softly in the rear tyre by Daniel Ricciardo on the first corner entry, suffering a puncture. Having had strong pace all weekend, Vettel's chances were all but gone and in a recovery attempt he first spun and then crashed out, losing second in the championship to Rosberg. The penultimate race in ] was a strong weekend for Vettel, who finished far ahead of teammate Räikkönen on track with both having clean races. He was not far off the Mercedes cars but had to settle for third. The final race in ] saw Vettel finish fourth following an error in qualifying that set him far down on the grid. His recovery pace was impressive, albeit remaining one pit stop behind Räikkönen in third due to lost time early on. He ended the season in third place, and with three wins and 13 podiums, he declared the season as a 'miracle.'<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/122061|title=Sebastian Vettel declares Ferrari's F1 year a 'miracle'|publisher=Autosport|date=29 November 2015|accessdate=29 November 2015}}</ref> This was in the light of how far behind the team had been the year before, yet being a race winner on merit during the course of the season.

====2016: A second winless campaign in three years====

{{See also|2016 Formula One World Championship}}
]]]
Vettel started his season by finishing third in the ], which saw the race being red-flagged after an accident involving ] and ].<ref>{{cite news|last=Lines|first=Chris|title=Rosberg beats Hamilton in season-opening Australian GP|url=http://racing.ap.org/article/rosberg-beats-hamilton-season-opening-australian-gp|accessdate=20 March 2016|work=Associated Press|agency=]|publisher=AP Sports|date=20 March 2016|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20160320153242/http://racing.ap.org/article/rosberg-beats-hamilton-season-opening-australian-gp|archivedate=20 March 2016|location=]}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Reiman|first=Samuel|title=Rosberg wins season-opening F1 race as Ferrari falters|url=http://www.foxsports.com/motor/story/f1-australian-gp-results-recap-nico-rosberg-mercedes-wins-ferrari-falters-032016|website=FoxSports.com|publisher=Fox Sports Interactive Media, LLC.|accessdate=20 March 2016|date=20 March 2016|archivedate=27 March 2016|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20160327193128/http://www.foxsports.com/motor/story/f1-australian-gp-results-recap-nico-rosberg-mercedes-wins-ferrari-falters-032016}}</ref> Vettel's participation in the ] came to an end without even being started as his car broke down on formation lap.<ref>{{cite web|last=Reiman|first=Samuel|title=Nico Rosberg wins Bahrain GP while Hamilton, Vettel hit trouble|url=http://www.foxsports.com/motor/story/f1-bahrain-results-recap-nico-rosberg-mercedes-040316|website=FoxSports.com|publisher=Fox Sports Interactive Media, LLC.|accessdate=4 April 2016|date=3 April 2016|archivedate=22 April 2016 |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20160422182011/http://www.foxsports.com/motor/story/f1-bahrain-results-recap-nico-rosberg-mercedes-040316 }}</ref> At the {{f1 gp|2016|Chinese}}, Vettel collided with teammate Räikkönen on the first lap, but both were able to continue. Despite falling down the order as a result of the first-lap incident, Vettel recovered to finish the race second. He had initially blamed ] for his first-lap collision with Räikkönen, arguing that he had to take action to avoid a collision with Kvyat after Kvyat overtook him in the first corners of the race for third place, even accusing him of being a "madman" and describing Kvyat's overtaking manoeuvre as "suicidal", but later going on to describe the events of the first lap as a "racing incident".<ref>{{cite web|last1=Parkes|first1=Ian|last2=Beer|first2=Matt|title=Vettel confronts Kvyat over 'suicidal' driving at Chinese GP|url=http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/123815|website=Autosport|publisher=Haymarket Media Group|accessdate=21 April 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Vettel moves to defuse Kvyat row|url=https://www.formula1.com/content/fom-website/en/latest/headlines/2016/4/vettel-diffuses-kvyat-row.html|website=Formula1.com|accessdate=21 April 2016}}</ref> At the ], Vettel retired on the first lap after two consecutive collisions with Red Bull driver Daniil Kvyat. Kvyat was handed a ten-second stop-go penalty and three penalty points on his licence.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Rencken|first1=Dieter|last2=Beer|first2=Matt|title=Kvyat expecting backlash after Russian Grand Pirx clash with Vettel|url=http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/124060|website=Autosport|publisher=Haymarket Media Group|accessdate=15 May 2016}}</ref> Vettel came third in the ] following ]'s maiden win in Formula One.<ref>{{cite web|title=2016 Spain Results|url=https://www.formula1.com/content/fom-website/en/championship/results/2016-race-results/2016-spain-results/race.html|website=Formula1.com|accessdate=14 June 2016}}</ref> He came fourth in the ] and second in the ], following ]'s first two wins of the season.<ref>{{cite web|title=2016 Monaco Results|url=http://www.formula1.com/content/fom-website/en/results.html/2016/races/943/monaco/race-result.html|website=Formula1.com|accessdate=14 June 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=2016 Canada Results|url=http://www.formula1.com/content/fom-website/en/results.html/2016/races/944/canada/race-result.html|website=Formula1.com|accessdate=14 June 2016}}</ref> At the ], Vettel attempted to overtake Verstappen, but after Verstappen ran off track and rejoined ahead of him, Vettel verbally attacked Verstappen and race director Charlie Whiting, for which he later apologised.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.jamesallenonf1.com/2016/10/moving-under-braking-the-net-widens-as-daniel-ricciardo-accuses-sebastian-vettel/ |title=Moving under braking: The net widens as Daniel Ricciardo accuses Sebastian Vettel |date=30 October 2016 |website=www.jamesallenonf1.com |accessdate=3 December 2017}}</ref> Vettel then blocked Ricciardo by moving in the braking zone. Vettel was given a ten-second penalty and two points on his licence under a dangerous driving rule clarified only a week before the race.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/frmula1/37819437|title=BBC Sport|publisher=|accessdate=4 November 2016|via=www.bbc.co.uk}}{{dead link|date=May 2018 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref> Vettel did not manage to win in 2016, but finished the season with seven podiums and 212 points, in fourth place.

====2017: Championship challenge ending in disappointment====
{{See also|2017 Formula One World Championship}}
{{BLP sources section|date=April 2018}}
] ]
His ] at Ferrari started with victory in ], his first in 18 months.<ref>{{Cite news|last=Woolcock|first=Adam|date=26 March 2017|title=Sebastian Vettel wins season-opening Melbourne Grand Prix – as it happened|work=The Guardian|url=https://www.theguardian.com/sport/live/2017/mar/26/australian-grand-prix-formula-one-2017-season-opener-live|access-date=12 August 2020|archive-date=14 April 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190414105324/https://www.theguardian.com/sport/live/2017/mar/26/australian-grand-prix-formula-one-2017-season-opener-live|url-status=live}}</ref> The early form continued the following races, winning in ] and ],<ref>{{Cite news|last=Benson|first=Andrew|date=16 April 2017|title=Sebastian Vettel beats Lewis Hamilton in Bahrain thriller|work=BBC Sport|url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/formula1/39615516|access-date=19 March 2020|archive-date=1 January 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200101211545/https://www.bbc.com/sport/formula1/39615516|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name=":12">{{Cite news|last=Benson|first=Andrew|url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/formula1/40076573|title=Monaco GP: Sebastian Vettel stretches title lead with win|date=28 May 2017|work=BBC Sport|access-date=19 March 2020|archive-date=30 June 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190630151305/https://www.bbc.com/sport/formula1/40076573|url-status=live}}</ref> and finishing second in ], ] and ].<ref>{{Cite web|title=2017 Driver Standings: Sebastian Vettel|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/results.html/2017/drivers/SEBVET01/sebastian-vettel.html|access-date=19 March 2020|website=Formula 1|archive-date=19 March 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200319153130/https://www.formula1.com/en/results.html/2017/drivers/SEBVET01/sebastian-vettel.html|url-status=live}}</ref> In Russia, Vettel took his first pole position in 18 months and with Räikkönen alongside him, Ferrari had their first front row lock out since the ].<ref>{{Cite news|last=Benson|first=Andrew|url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/formula1/39756778|title=Sebastian Vettel on Russian GP pole position as Ferrari lock out front row|date=29 April 2017|work=BBC Sport|access-date=19 March 2020|archive-date=7 July 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190707230007/https://www.bbc.com/sport/formula1/39756778|url-status=live}}</ref> Vettel's lead at the top of the standings increased to 25 points after the Monaco Grand Prix, Ferrari's first victory at the circuit since Schumacher won there in ].<ref name=":12" />
Vettel began his third season at Ferrari with victory in ], his first win in 18 months, finishing nearly ten seconds clear of ].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.statsf1.com/en/statistiques/pilote/victoire/ecart.aspx|title=Statistics Drivers - Wins - Interval between two|last=|first=|date=|website=www.statsf1.com|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=15 January 2019}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.statsf1.com/en/2017/australie/classement.aspx|title=Australia 2017 - Result|last=|first=|date=|website=www.statsf1.com|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=15 January 2019}}</ref> Having started second, Vettel kept pace with pole-sitter Hamilton, who pitted after 17 laps, before re-joining behind ]. With Hamilton being told by his engineer that it was "critical" to pass Verstappen, Vettel stayed out six laps longer. Vettel built up just enough of a gap to pit and re-join ahead of Verstappen, but more crucially, Hamilton. By the time Verstappen pitted a few laps later, Vettel had already pulled around five seconds clear of Hamilton and from there on, comfortably controlled the race and cruised to his 43rd career victory.<ref>{{citeweb|url= https://www.theguardian.com/sport/live/2017/mar/26/australian-grand-prix-formula-one-2017-season-opener-live|title=Sebastian Vettel wins season-opening Melbourne Grand Prix – as it happened|date=26 March 2017|work=Guardian|accessdate=29 March 2017}}</ref>


In ], Vettel collided into the rear of race leader Hamilton under the safety car, accusing Hamilton of brake testing him.<ref>{{cite web|date=26 June 2017|title=FIA data shows Hamilton did not brake-test Vettel|url=http://www.planetf1.com/news/fia-analysis-proves-hamilton-did-not-brake-test-vettel/|access-date=1 July 2017|website=Planet F1|archive-date=29 October 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181029071531/https://www.planetf1.com/news/fia-analysis-proves-hamilton-did-not-brake-test-vettel/|url-status=dead}}</ref> Moments later, Vettel pulled alongside and hit his Mercedes as they prepared for a restart, for which he received a ten-second stop-go penalty.<ref>{{cite web|last=Benson|first=Andrew|date=25 June 2017|title=Lewis Hamilton calls Sebastian Vettel 'a disgrace' after Azerbaijan GP collision|url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/formula1/40400301|access-date=26 June 2017|website=BBC Sport|archive-date=25 June 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170625194525/http://www.bbc.com/sport/formula1/40400301|url-status=live}}</ref> The FIA investigated the Vettel-Hamilton incident further, but Vettel received no punishment. Vettel took full responsibility, issuing a public apology and committing to devote personal time over the next 12 months to educational activities across a variety of FIA championships and events.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Noble|first=Jonathan|date=3 July 2017|title=FIA takes no further action on Vettel after full apology|url=https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/f1-vettel-fia-baku-apology-926265/926265/|access-date=12 August 2020|website=Motorsport.com|archive-date=24 September 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200924061408/https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/f1-vettel-fia-baku-apology-926265/926265/|url-status=live}}</ref>
The second round came in ]. Like in Australia a fortnight earlier, Vettel qualified in second, alongside Hamilton, getting on the front row by just one thousandth of a second from ].<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/2017/chinese-grand-prix/results/qualifying|title=Qualifying - Results - Chinese Grand Prix - 2017 - Formula 1|website=BBC Sport|language=en-gb|access-date=2019-04-03}}</ref> The race started in damp, but drying conditions. Vettel quickly opted to put on the dry tyres during a Virtual Safety Car period. This dropped him to sixth, but with the five cars in front still on intermediates on a now drying circuit, Vettel was in position to take the lead. However, a crash for ] on the pit straight brought out the Safety Car, meaning Vettel could not take advantage. Having been stuck behind ] and teammate ] for a number of laps, Vettel eventually pulled off two excellent overtakes, especially on the former, getting him back into the podium positions. Hamilton though was out of reach, leaving Vettel having to settle for second; the pair were now joint leaders of the championship.


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Vettel took his second victory of the year in ]. Having started third, Vettel moved ahead of Hamilton at the start and kept with pole-sitter Bottas until the first round of pit stops. Just like in China, a Safety Car came out shortly after Vettel's first stop, but this time, worked in Vettel's favour, allowing him to take the lead. His second and final pit-stop for softs saw him in second, but with Hamilton in front needing to stop again & with a five-second penalty, Vettel would have track position. Despite Hamilton charging on newer tyres (having stopped 11 laps later) in his final stint, he could not get close enough to challenge, allowing Vettel to take his 44th career victory and his third in Bahrain.
Vettel's championship lead was cut to only a single point in ], as he suffered a puncture on the penultimate lap and dropped to seventh place.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Klein|first=Jamie|date=16 July 2017|title=Lewis Hamilton wins F1 British Grand Prix at Silverstone|url=https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/british-gp-hamilton-wins-silverstone-raikkonen-vettel-931576/931576/|access-date=3 April 2019|website=Motorsport.com|archive-date=9 April 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230409213640/https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/british-gp-hamilton-wins-silverstone-raikkonen-vettel-931576/931576/|url-status=live}}</ref> Vettel started from pole in ] and maintained the lead. He overcame steering issues and held on for victory, which gave him a 14-point lead over Hamilton.<ref>{{Cite web|date=30 July 2017|title=Vettel wins as Ferrari prove unstoppable in Hungary|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/headlines/2017/7/race---vettel-wins-as-ferrari-prove-unstoppable-in-hungary.html|access-date=19 March 2020|website=Formula 1|archive-date=31 July 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170731033736/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/headlines/2017/7/race---vettel-wins-as-ferrari-prove-unstoppable-in-hungary.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Mercedes dominated after the summer break and Vettel lost the championship lead at the ],<ref>{{Cite news|last1=Brown|first1=Oliver|last2=Slater|first2=Luke|date=4 September 2017|title=Lewis Hamilton storms to Italian Grand Prix win and takes drivers' championship lead for first time|work=The Telegraph|url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/formula-1/2017/09/03/italian-grand-prix-2017-live-race-updates-lewis-hamilton-latest/ |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20220110/https://www.telegraph.co.uk/formula-1/2017/09/03/italian-grand-prix-2017-live-race-updates-lewis-hamilton-latest/ |archive-date=10 January 2022 |url-access=subscription |url-status=live|access-date=12 August 2020}}{{cbignore}}</ref> which was followed by a first-lap retirement in ] after collision with Räikkönen and Verstappen. It was the first time in Formula One history that both Ferraris retired from the first lap of a Grand Prix.<ref name=":13">{{Cite news|last=Benson|first=Andrew|url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/formula1/41299491|title=Lewis Hamilton wins in Singapore after Ferrari crash|date=17 September 2017|work=BBC Sport|access-date=19 March 2020|archive-date=20 August 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190820171635/https://www.bbc.com/sport/formula1/41299491|url-status=live}}</ref> His title hopes were dealt another blow in ], as he started last following a turbo problem in qualifying. He finished in fourth place, but crashed with Williams' ] on the cool-down lap; neither would be penalised.<ref>{{Cite news|last=Benson|first=Andrew|url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/formula1/41453667|title=Max Verstappen beats Lewis Hamilton to Malaysian GP win|date=1 October 2017|work=BBC Sport|access-date=19 March 2020|archive-date=30 July 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200730172738/https://www.bbc.com/sport/formula1/41453667|url-status=live}}</ref> More reliability issues befell Ferrari in ] as Vettel retired due to a spark plug failure.<ref>{{Cite news|last=Benson|first=Andrew|url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/formula1/41541831|title=Japanese Grand Prix: Lewis Hamilton wins as Sebastian Vettel retires|date=8 October 2017|work=BBC Sport|access-date=19 March 2020|archive-date=21 April 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210421022533/https://www.bbc.com/sport/formula1/41541831|url-status=live}}</ref> In ], Vettel became the fourth driver in Formula One history to claim 50 pole positions.<ref>{{Cite news|last=Benson|first=Andrew|url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/formula1/41790295|title=Mexican Grand Prix: Sebastian Vettel takes pole with Lewis Hamilton third|date=28 October 2018|work=BBC Sport|access-date=19 March 2020|archive-date=1 April 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210401225212/https://www.bbc.com/sport/formula1/41790295|url-status=live}}</ref> Verstappen took the lead from Vettel at the start, before Vettel collided with Hamilton, after which Hamilton won his fourth title.<ref>{{Cite news|last=Benson|first=Andrew|url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/formula1/41797604|title=Lewis Hamilton wins fourth world title at Mexican Grand Prix|date=29 October 2017|work=BBC Sport|access-date=19 March 2020|archive-date=31 October 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171031154349/http://www.bbc.com/sport/formula1/41797604|url-status=live}}</ref> For the first time in his career, Vettel failed to win the World Drivers' Championship having led it at some stage during a season.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Wood|first=Will|date=30 October 2017|title=Hamilton champion again as Vettel clash opens door for Verstappen|url=https://www.racefans.net/2017/10/30/hamilton-champion-again-as-vettel-clash-opens-door-for-verstappen/|access-date=19 March 2020|website=RaceFans|archive-date=24 October 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211024110014/https://www.racefans.net/2017/10/30/hamilton-champion-again-as-vettel-clash-opens-door-for-verstappen/|url-status=live}}</ref>


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The fine early season form for Vettel and Ferrari continued in ] as Vettel took his first pole position in 18 months (the 47th of his career) and with teammate Räikkönen alongside him, the Scuderia had their first front row lock out since the ]. However, Bottas got a fast start to move ahead of both Vettel and Räikkönen. Bottas pitted for the one and only time on lap 27, Vettel staying out seven laps longer. Re-entering around five seconds back, Vettel chased down Bottas in a tense finale to a rather processional race, but could not stop the Finn from claiming his first victory. Despite missing out on his third win of the year, Vettel extended his lead at the top of the standings to 13 points, with nearest challenger Hamilton only finishing 4th. By maintaining his 100% podium success rate in 2017, Vettel became just the fifth man in history to claim 90 F1 podiums.
The {{F1|2018}} season was dubbed the "Fight For Five" by the media, as for the first time in Formula One history, two quadruple world champions lined up at the start of a season.<ref>{{Cite news|last=Takle|first=Abhishek|url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/sports/two-four-time-champions-hamilton-and-vettel-has-turned-into-a-one-horse-race/articleshow/66125702.cms|title=Two four-time champions — Hamilton and Vettel — has turned into a one-horse race|date=8 October 2018|work=The Economic Times|access-date=19 March 2020|archive-date=28 October 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181028231429/https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/sports/two-four-time-champions-hamilton-and-vettel-has-turned-into-a-one-horse-race/articleshow/66125702.cms|url-status=live}}</ref> For the second consecutive year, Vettel began the season with victory in ], after he took the lead while pitting under the virtual safety car.<ref>{{Cite news|last=Rose|first=Gary|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/live/formula1/43294108|title=How Australian Grand Prix unfolded|date=25 March 2018|work=BBC Sport|access-date=19 March 2020|archive-date=19 March 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200319234016/https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/live/formula1/43294108|url-status=live}}</ref> It was his 100th podium, while he also became only the third man in Formula One history to have led 3,000 laps.<ref>{{cite web|last=Benson|first=Andrew|date=25 March 2018|title=Sebastian Vettel leapfrogs Lewis Hamilton to take Australian GP win|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/43525895|access-date=19 March 2020|website=BBC Sport|archive-date=15 September 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180915092213/https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/43525895|url-status=live}}</ref> In ], Vettel maintained the lead from pole through the first round of pit stops and held off Mercedes' ] despite being on old soft tyres to take a fourth victory at the circuit.<ref>{{cite web|last=Benson|first=Andrew|date=8 April 2018|title=Bahrain GP: Sebastian Vettel wins, Lewis Hamilton third after fine overtake|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/43683493|access-date=19 March 2020|website=BBC Sport|archive-date=20 November 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181120215128/https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/43683493|url-status=live}}</ref> At the {{F1 GP|2018|Chinese}}, he was hit by Verstappen in the latter stages of the race, which caused both to spin. Vettel limped home in eighth place, with his championship lead reduced to nine points.<ref>{{cite web|last=Benson|first=Andrew|date=15 April 2018|title=Daniel Ricciardo wins Chinese GP after series of overtakes|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/43764416|access-date=19 March 2020|website=BBC Sport|archive-date=5 August 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180805174635/https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/43764416|url-status=live}}</ref> For the first time since 2013, Vettel took three consecutive pole positions as he qualified in first place in ]. It was the 23rd different Grand Prix at which he had taken pole position, equalling Hamilton's then-record.<ref>{{cite web |title=Pole positions – By different Grand Prix |url=https://www.statsf1.com/en/statistiques/pilote/pole/grandprix-different.aspx |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180517105030/http://www.statsf1.com/en/statistiques/pilote/pole/grandprix-different.aspx |archive-date=17 May 2018 |access-date=12 August 2020 |website=Stats F1}}</ref>


At the {{F1 GP|2018|Canadian}}, Vettel won for the third time in 2018 and for the 50th time in his career, becoming only the fourth man to reach a half-century of wins.<ref>{{cite web|last=Benson|first=Andrew|date=10 June 2018|title=Canadian Grand Prix: Sebastian Vettel wins to take lead in title race|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/44432978|access-date=12 August 2020|website=BBC Sport|archive-date=25 October 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181025061544/https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/44432978|url-status=live}}</ref> The following race in ], Vettel lost the championship lead following a collision with Bottas.<ref>{{cite web|last=Benson|first=Andrew|date=24 June 2018|title=Lewis Hamilton wins French Grand Prix after Sebastian Vettel penalty|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/44595085|access-date=12 August 2020|website=BBC Sport|archive-date=25 October 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181025061553/https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/44595085|url-status=live}}</ref> He bounced back in ], after he passed Bottas in the last laps to take victory.<ref>{{cite web|last=Benson|first=Andrew|date=8 July 2018|title=Sebastian Vettel wins British GP, Lewis Hamilton fight back|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/44758572|access-date=12 August 2020|website=BBC Sport|archive-date=21 September 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200921105735/https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/44758572|url-status=live}}</ref> Vettel led his ] until he slid off the track and hit the wall in the latter stages as rain started to fall, as he had clipped the sausage curb a few laps before, breaking a part of his front wing, causing understeer and loss of downforce;<ref>{{cite web|last=Benson|first=Andrew|date=22 July 2018|title=German Grand Prix: Lewis Hamilton wins after Sebastian Vettel crashes out|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/44912617|access-date=12 August 2020|website=BBC Sport|archive-date=12 August 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180812181816/https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/44912617|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|last=Bharadwaj|first=Abhishek|date=24 July 2020|title=Watch: Could This Be Why Sebastian Vettel Crashed Out of the 2018 F1 German Grand Prix?|url=https://www.essentiallysports.com/f1-news-watch-could-this-be-why-sebastian-vettel-crashed-out-of-the-2018-f1-german-grand-prix/|access-date=4 October 2021|website=EssentiallySports|archive-date=4 October 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211004160950/https://www.essentiallysports.com/f1-news-watch-could-this-be-why-sebastian-vettel-crashed-out-of-the-2018-f1-german-grand-prix/|url-status=live}}</ref> he won in ], however, in which he passed Hamilton for the race victory.<ref>{{cite web|last=Benson|first=Andrew|date=26 August 2018|title=Sebastian Vettel wins in Belgium after dramatic crash|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/45314905|access-date=12 August 2020|website=BBC Sport|archive-date=23 October 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181023050239/https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/45314905|url-status=live}}</ref> Contact on the opening lap with Hamilton in ] saw Vettel damage his front wing and drop to the back of the field, but he recovered to cross the finishing line in fourth place. It left Vettel 30 points behind the Mercedes driver with seven races left.<ref>{{cite web|last=Benson|first=Andrew|date=2 September 2018|title=Italian GP: Lewis Hamilton passes Kimi Räikkönen to win thriller, Vettel fourth|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/45389088|access-date=12 August 2020|website=BBC Sport|archive-date=8 November 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181108092224/https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/45389088|url-status=live}}</ref> His championship hopes were dealt a further blow as Ferrari's upgrades introduced at the ] proved to be unsuccessful, making a step backwards on car development; Ferrari suffered a dip of form until the ], where they reverted to their old package and successfully rediscovered their form.<ref>{{Cite web|date=4 December 2018|title=Russian GP: Where has Ferrari's pace gone?|url=https://www.skysports.com/f1/news/24182/11507490/russian-gp-where-has-ferraris-pace-gone|access-date=4 October 2021|publisher=Sky Sports|archive-date=4 October 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211004160950/https://www.skysports.com/f1/news/24182/11507490/russian-gp-where-has-ferraris-pace-gone|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|last1=Hughes|first1=Mark|last2=Piola|first2=Giorgio|date=23 October 2018|title=Tech Tuesday: How going backwards took Ferrari forward to US victory|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.tech-tuesday-how-going-backwards-took-ferrari-forward-to-us-victory.3dT7xOwdyUe28cQacw0IyW.html|access-date=6 October 2021|publisher=Formula 1|archive-date=6 October 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211006040511/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.tech-tuesday-how-going-backwards-took-ferrari-forward-to-us-victory.3dT7xOwdyUe28cQacw0IyW.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Vettel claimed his first ever podium in ] but the World Drivers' Championship went to Hamilton for a second consecutive year.<ref>{{cite web|last=Benson|first=Andrew|date=28 October 2018|title=Lewis Hamilton equals Juan Manuel Fangio with fifth F1 title|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/46012327|access-date=12 August 2020|website=BBC Sport|archive-date=29 July 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200729231614/https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/46012327|url-status=live}}</ref> Although Mercedes had been the more consistent and better team,<ref>{{Cite news|last=Slater|first=Luke|url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/formula-1/2019/10/14/ferrari-may-now-have-fastest-car-japanese-grand-prix-shows-far/ |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20220110/https://www.telegraph.co.uk/formula-1/2019/10/14/ferrari-may-now-have-fastest-car-japanese-grand-prix-shows-far/ |archive-date=10 January 2022 |url-access=subscription |url-status=live|title=Ferrari may now have the fastest car, but the Japanese Grand Prix shows how far they have to go to topple Mercedes|date=14 October 2019|work=The Telegraph|access-date=19 March 2020}}{{cbignore}}</ref> fans and pundits criticised Vettel for making too many mistakes during the season.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.skysports.com/f1/news/12433/11515185/f1-2018-where-did-it-go-wrong-for-sebastian-vettel-and-ferrari|title=F1 2018: Where did it go wrong for Sebastian Vettel and Ferrari?|last=Morlidge|first=Matt|date=4 December 2018|website=Sky Sports|access-date=19 March 2020|archive-date=19 March 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200319181406/https://www.skysports.com/f1/news/12433/11515185/f1-2018-where-did-it-go-wrong-for-sebastian-vettel-and-ferrari|url-status=live}}</ref>
Vettel's weekend in ] looked as if it was going to be compromised, with an engine change required between final practice and qualifying. During the first part of qualifying, his engineer told him to park his Ferrari, but Vettel's response of "Are you sure?" and a change of setting allowed him to continue. Instead of starting at the back of the grid, Vettel would go on to qualify 2nd, missing out on a first pole in Barcelona by half a tenth from Hamilton. A thrilling duel between the multiple champions ensued, with Vettel taking the lead at the start. Midway through the race, a collision between ] and ], leaving the latter in the gravel, brought out the Virtual Safety Car. Hamilton pitted for the faster softs, with Vettel pitting for the slower, but more durable mediums a lap later. Vettel re-emerged side by side with Hamilton heading into turn one, and just held onto the lead. However, Hamilton would pass Vettel a few laps later, and managed his soft tyres to the end, leaving Vettel having to settle for 2nd for the 2nd consecutive race. Hamilton's victory saw Vettel's lead at the top of the championship standings cut by the Brit to six points.


==== 2019–2020: Decline and departure from Ferrari ====
After narrowly missing out on victories in Russia & Spain, Vettel returned to winning ways in ], beating teammate Räikkönen & Red Bull's Ricciardo. Vettel was beaten to pole by Räikkönen by less than a tenth, but took the lead during the one and only pit stop window halfway through the race; Vettel staying out a five laps longer to "overcut" the Finn. With closest title rival Hamilton only finishing 7th, Vettel's lead at the top of the standings increased to 25 points, the equivalent of a race win. This was Ferrari's first victory on the streets of Monte Carlo since ] in 2001.
After showing impressive pace throughout pre-season testing in ], Vettel and his new teammate ] headed to ] with many pundits believing they had the car to beat for the {{F1|2019}} season.<ref>{{cite web|date=3 March 2019|title=Ferrari on fire: What we learned from 2019 F1 Pre-Season Testing|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.ferrari-on-fire-what-we-learned-from-2019-f1-pre-season-testing.2d7IdiDuAfTgi0NOi21MYe.html|access-date=12 August 2020|website=Formula 1|archive-date=26 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200826103731/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.ferrari-on-fire-what-we-learned-from-2019-f1-pre-season-testing.2d7IdiDuAfTgi0NOi21MYe.html|url-status=live}}</ref> The opening weekend proved to be difficult, however, as Vettel qualified some seven tenths off pole position in third and finished the race in fourth place.<ref>{{cite web|last=Benson|first=Andrew|date=17 March 2019|title=Valtteri Bottas wins Australian GP after Lewis Hamilton overtake|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/47600736|access-date=12 August 2020|website=BBC Sport|archive-date=18 March 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190318223207/https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/47600736|url-status=live}}</ref> Third-place finishes in ] and ] followed, as Mercedes continued to dominate.<ref>{{cite web|last=Benson|first=Andrew|date=28 April 2019|title=Valtteri Bottas beats Lewis Hamilton to Azerbaijan win|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/48084605|access-date=12 August 2020|website=BBC Sport|archive-date=28 April 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190428144107/https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/48084605|url-status=live}}</ref> Vettel took pole position in ]; his first pole in 17 races.<ref>{{cite web|last=Benson|first=Andrew|date=8 June 2019|title=Sebastian Vettel beats Lewis Hamilton to Canada pole position|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/48569128|access-date=12 August 2020|website=BBC Sport|archive-date=1 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201101114531/https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/48569128|url-status=live}}</ref> Midway through the race, a snap of oversteer caused him to run wide onto the grass. Vettel received a five-second time penalty from the stewards, who believed he had returned to the track "in an unsafe manner and forced off track".<ref>{{Cite web|date=9 June 2019|title=Vettel penalty hands record 7th Canada win to Hamilton|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.canadian-grand-prix-2019-race-report-highlights.4Jhsl7NERcdaUp4igw5vXi.html|access-date=19 March 2020|website=Formula 1|archive-date=26 September 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200926125244/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.canadian-grand-prix-2019-race-report-highlights.4Jhsl7NERcdaUp4igw5vXi.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Vettel crossed the line in first place but lost his victory as a result of the penalty. After the race, he swapped the number one and two signs in front of Hamilton's Mercedes and the empty spot that was supposed for his own car, as Vettel parked his car at the start of the pit entry.<ref>{{cite web|last=Benson|first=Andrew|date=9 June 2019|title=Lewis Hamilton wins in Canada as Sebastian Vettel penalised|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/48576160|access-date=12 August 2020|website=BBC Sport|archive-date=4 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200804083221/https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/48576160|url-status=live}}</ref> At the {{F1 GP|2019|German}}, Vettel was unable to qualify after a turbo issue, which meant he would start in last place. During a race with mixed weather conditions, Vettel climbed up to second place.<ref>{{cite web|last=Benson|first=Andrew|date=28 July 2019|title=Max Verstappen wins German Grand Prix as Lewis Hamilton crashes|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/49144467|access-date=12 August 2020|website=BBC Sport|archive-date=1 August 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190801101524/https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/49144467|url-status=live}}</ref>]]] In ], Vettel spun at the Ascari chicane and when he re-entered the track, he made contact with ]'s Stroll. Vettel received a 10-second stop-go penalty and finished in 13th place.<ref>{{cite web|last=Benson|first=Andrew|date=8 September 2019|title=Italian GP: Charles Leclerc wins in Italy after 'dangerous' defending on Lewis Hamilton|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/49627273|access-date=12 August 2020|website=BBC Sport|archive-date=13 October 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191013143714/https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/49627273|url-status=live}}</ref> At the {{F1 GP|2019|Singapore}}, Vettel won on a circuit Ferrari were expected to struggle at. For the first time, Vettel had won five times at the same track.<ref>{{cite web|last=Benson|first=Andrew|date=22 September 2019|title=Singapore GP: Sebastian Vettel beats team-mate Charles Leclerc|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/49787607|access-date=12 August 2020|website=BBC Sport|archive-date=14 October 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191014220039/https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/49787607|url-status=live}}</ref> The following race, in ], Vettel went from third place on the grid to first place in the first corner. However, radio transmissions suggested that the team wanted to swap their drivers, but with Vettel the quicker driver, he remained in front. Vettel retired soon after with a MGU-K problem.<ref>{{cite web|last=Benson|first=Andrew|date=29 September 2019|title=Russian GP: Lewis Hamilton wins after Sebastian Vettel ignores team orders|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/49870864|access-date=12 August 2020|website=BBC Sport|archive-date=30 October 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201030175827/https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/49870864|url-status=live}}</ref>
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] saw Vettel's record of finishing first or second in every race in 2017 come to an end. Having qualified second, Vettel slipped to fourth at the start and contact with Verstappen caused his front wing to be damaged. Pitting to fix the problem, Vettel re-entered in 18th and last. He also had damage to his floor, but the championship leader worked his way through the pack and after stopping again with 20 laps to go, Vettel was up to 7th. Brake issues for teammate Räikkönen and bold overtakes on both Force India drivers ] and ] allowed Vettel to recover and he eventually finished fourth, less than a second behind Ricciardo and claiming the final podium spot. Title rival Hamilton cruised to his sixth Montreal victory and with it reduced Vettel's championship advantage to 12 points.


Vettel took pole position in ],<ref>{{Cite news|last=Benson|first=Andrew|url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/formula1/50009871|title=Typhoon Hagibis: Japanese Grand Prix qualifying postponed|date=11 October 2019|work=BBC Sport|access-date=19 March 2020|archive-date=13 October 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191013101003/https://www.bbc.com/sport/formula1/50009871|url-status=live}}</ref> but an abrupt start off the line caused him to momentarily stop before getting away, which allowed Bottas to take the lead; Vettel was not penalized for his jump start.<ref>{{cite web|last=Benson|first=Andrew|date=13 October 2019|title=Valtteri Bottas wins Japanese Grand Prix as Mercedes win constructors' title|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/50031830|access-date=12 August 2020|website=BBC Sport|archive-date=1 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201101025445/https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/50031830|url-status=live}}</ref> After running in third at the {{F1 GP|2019|Brazilian}} for the majority of the race, a safety car allowed Red Bull's ] and an aggressive Leclerc to overtake him. He tried to pass his teammate immediately but the two Ferraris collided, resulting in another retirement for Vettel.<ref>{{cite web|last=Benson|first=Andrew|date=17 November 2019|title=Brazilian GP: Max Verstappen wins thriller as Ferrari's Vettel and Leclerc collide|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/50453757|access-date=12 August 2020|website=BBC Sport|archive-date=27 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200827052704/https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/50453757|url-status=live}}</ref> He finished fifth in the World Drivers' Championship, and was outscored by a teammate for only the second time across a season.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Benson|first=Andrew|date=1 December 2019|title=Lewis Hamilton dominates in Abu Dhabi GP for 11th victory of the season|url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/formula1/50621753|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191202160817/https://www.bbc.com/sport/formula1/50621753|archive-date=2 December 2019|access-date=12 August 2020|website=BBC Sport}}</ref>
Vettel also finished 4th in ]. After Bottas and Räikkönen collided at the start, Vettel moved up to 2nd. The race was full of incident, featuring three Safety Cars and a red flag. Just before the second Safety Car period was coming to an end, Vettel collided into the rear of race leader Hamilton, accusing his title rival of brake testing him. FIA telemetry data showed that Hamilton had not used his brakes.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.planetf1.com/news/fia-analysis-proves-hamilton-did-not-brake-test-vettel/|title=FIA data shows Hamilton did not brake-test Vettel|website=www.planetf1.com|accessdate=1 July 2017}}</ref> Moments later, Vettel pulled alongside and collided with Hamilton's Mercedes as they prepared for a restart, for which he received a ten-second stop-go penalty.<ref>{{cite web|title=Lewis Hamilton calls Sebastian Vettel 'a disgrace' after Azerbaijan GP collision|url=http://m.bbc.com/sport/formula1/40400301|publisher=BBC Sport|accessdate=26 June 2017}}</ref> However, with Hamilton being forced to pit for a loose headrest a couple of laps earlier, Vettel emerged in front and held off Hamilton to move 14 points clear in the standings. The FIA would investigate the Vettel-Hamilton incident further, but Vettel received no further punishment, although took full responsibility, issuing a public apology and committing to devote personal time over the next 12 months to educational activities across a variety of FIA championships and events.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.gpupdate.net/en/f1-news/355310/vettel-admits-responsiblity-fia-closes-case/|title=No further action after Vettel apologises|website=GPUpdate.net|language=en-GB|access-date=4 July 2017}}</ref>


] on their ]]]
] saw Vettel return to the podium, his first in Spielberg. Similar to Russia, Vettel chased down Bottas in an exciting finish to a rather processional race, but the Finn held him off to take his second career victory and put himself into contention in the championship battle. With a five-place grid penalty for a gearbox change, Hamilton started 8th, but did recover to finish 4th. However, this allowed Vettel to extend his lead to 20 points.
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Vettel's championship lead was cut to just a single point as he finished 7th in ], whilst Hamilton won his 4th consecutive race at Silverstone (5th overall). Starting 3rd, Vettel lost a place to Verstappen at the start and remained behind the Red Bull until undercutting him during the pit-stop window. With Hamilton winning and teammate Räikkönen in 2nd, Vettel was on track for a podium, before Bottas, on much fresher supersoft tyres, breezed past. A late puncture for Räikkönen appeared to have put Vettel back on the podium again, but he too suffered the same fate on the penultimate lap and dropped four places, costing him nine points.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/british-gp-hamilton-wins-silverstone-raikkonen-vettel-931576/931576/|title=Lewis Hamilton wins F1 British Grand Prix at Silverstone|website=www.motorsport.com|language=en|access-date=2019-04-03}}</ref>


Ferrari later announced they would not extend Vettel's contract beyond the {{F1|2020}} season. Team principal ] explained there was "no specific reason" for the decision, though both parties noted it was an amicable agreement.<ref name=":14">{{cite news|date=12 May 2020|title=Scuderia Ferrari Mission Winnow and Sebastian Vettel decide not to extend their contract|work=Scuderia Ferrari|url=https://www.ferrari.com/en-EN/formula1/articles/scuderia-ferrari-mission-winnow-and-sebastian-vettel-decide-not-to-extend-their-contract|access-date=12 May 2020|archive-date=13 May 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200513132758/https://www.ferrari.com/en-EN/formula1/articles/scuderia-ferrari-mission-winnow-and-sebastian-vettel-decide-not-to-extend-their-contract|url-status=live}}</ref> The season was disrupted by the ] as the first ten races of the original calendar were either rescheduled, postponed or cancelled altogether. Ferrari discovered problems on their car following pre-season testing, forcing them to make a major redesign.<ref>{{Cite news|last=Benson|first=Andrew|date=30 June 2020|title=Flaws force Ferrari to redesign car|work=BBC Sport|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/53160036|access-date=5 July 2020|archive-date=5 July 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200705213452/https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/53160036|url-status=live}}</ref>
In ], Vettel took his 2nd pole position of the season; his 3rd in Budapest and the 48th of his career. A hydraulic issue appeared on the morning of the race, but the problem was fixed before the start. Starting the race from the front, Vettel maintained the lead at turn one from teammate Räikkönen. However, another issue, this time steering, would affect Vettel throughout the race, allowing Räikkönen and the two Mercedes of Bottas and Hamilton to put him under huge pressure. The world champions swapped their drivers, giving Hamilton the chance to challenge the Ferraris and would swap them back if the triple world champion could not get past. He did not and allowed Bottas back through at the final corner of the last lap. Despite the steering problem, Vettel held on for victory, his 2nd in Hungary & 46th overall, giving him a 14-point lead over Hamilton heading into the sport's month long summer break.


The ] lacked pace as Vettel finished the season's opening race in ] in 10th place.<ref>{{Cite news|last=Benson|first=Andrew|date=5 July 2020|title=Hamilton penalised for collision as Bottas wins|work=BBC Sport|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/53299094|access-date=5 July 2020|archive-date=5 July 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200705152213/https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/53299094|url-status=live}}</ref> During the weekend, he was also given a warning for breaching the FIA's ] protocols after he was seen mixing with members of his former team Red Bull.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Noble|first=Jonathan|date=4 July 2020|title=Mask-less Vettel, Red Bull chat prompts FIA letter|url=https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/vettel-horner-mask-meeting-austria/4825579/|access-date=11 July 2020|website=Motorsport.com|archive-date=12 May 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220512145910/https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/vettel-horner-mask-meeting-austria/4825579/|url-status=live}}</ref> The following race, at the {{F1 GP|2020|Styrian}}, Vettel retired on the opening lap with rear wing damage following a collision with Leclerc.<ref>{{cite web|last=Benson|first=Andrew|date=12 July 2020|title=Lewis Hamilton takes dominant Styrian Grand Prix win after Ferraris collide|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/53382391|access-date=12 August 2020|website=BBC Sport|archive-date=14 July 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200714022029/https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/53382391|url-status=live}}</ref> He ended the season in a disappointing 13th place in the Drivers' standings, with a third place in ] as his best result.<ref>{{Cite web|title=2020 World Championship Result|url=https://www.statsf1.com/en/2020.aspx|access-date=13 December 2020|website=Stats F1|archive-date=14 December 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201214040220/https://www.statsf1.com/en/2020.aspx|url-status=live}}</ref> Ferrari only finished sixth in the Constructors' standings, their worst result since ], while Vettel's total of 33 points was the lowest in a full campaign in his Formula One career.<ref>{{Cite news|last=Baldwin|first=Alan|date=13 December 2020|title=Winners and losers of 2020 Formula One season|publisher=Reuters|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/uk-motor-f1-abudhabi-winners-idUSKBN28N0P3|access-date=13 December 2020|archive-date=13 December 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201213194548/https://www.reuters.com/article/uk-motor-f1-abudhabi-winners-idUSKBN28N0P3|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name=SeasonsOverview/>
It was announced in ] that Vettel had signed a new three-year deal with Ferrari, keeping him at the Scuderia until 2020.<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.skysports.com/f1/news/12433/11006051/sebastian-vettel-signs-new-three-year-ferrari-deal|title=Sebastian Vettel signs new three-year Ferrari deal|work=Sky Sports|access-date=16 September 2017|language=en}}</ref> Räikkönen also extended his contract, but only for a year.<ref>{{cite web|title=Renewal of the agreement between Scuderia Ferrari and Kimi Raikkonen|url=http://formula1.ferrari.com/en/2017-f1-renewal-of-the-agreement-between-scuderia-ferrari-and-kimi-raikkonen/|website=formula1.ferrari.com|accessdate=31 October 2017}}</ref> On track, Vettel qualified 2nd & would convert that starting position in the race, finishing behind Hamilton, who halved the gap at the top of the standings with his 5th victory of the season.
Vettel then arrived in ] for Ferrari's home race. In a wet qualifying session, which contained a 2 and a half-hour delay, he could only qualify in 8th, but would start 6th due to penalties for the two Red Bulls. After maintaining position at the start, Vettel quickly passed teammate Räikkönen, ] and ] to move into the podium positions. However, Mercedes would dominate, nearly a second a lap quicker on average throughout, leaving Vettel having to settle for third in front of the Tifosi and over half a minute behind. Hamilton's 4th victory at Monza meant for the first time in 2017, Vettel would not be leading the championship and was now trailing the Brit by three points after the final European race of the season.


=== Aston Martin (2021–2022) ===
A third pole of the season and a 49th of Vettel's career came in ]. His former team Red Bull had dominated all weekend up to the final part of qualifying, with Verstappen looking on course to take Vettel's record of the youngest pole sitter in F1 history. Both of Vettel's flying laps in Q3 were good enough for pole; his 4th at the Marina Bay circuit. However, Vettel retired on the opening lap of the race (which began in damp conditions) after colliding with Räikkönen and Verstappen and having tried to continue, he soon hit the wall. It was the first time in Formula One history that both Ferraris retired from the first lap of a Grand Prix. To compound Vettel's misery, title rival Hamilton, who had started fifth, avoided the first lap chaos, took the lead and went on to take his 60th career victory. His 3rd win in Singapore meant Hamilton had a 28-point advantage over Vettel.
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Vettel joined ] for the ], replacing ].<ref>{{Cite web|last=Galloway|first=James|date=10 September 2020|title=Sebastian Vettel joining Aston Martin for F1 2021 replacing Sergio Perez|url=https://www.skysports.com/f1/news/12433/12067801/sebastian-vettel-joining-aston-martin-for-f1-2021-replacing-sergio-perez|access-date=10 September 2020|website=Sky Sports|archive-date=13 September 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200913173938/https://www.skysports.com/f1/news/12433/12067801/sebastian-vettel-joining-aston-martin-for-f1-2021-replacing-sergio-perez|url-status=live}}</ref> In his debut race weekend in ], he received a grid penalty in qualifying, forcing him to start last. While Vettel started well, he had a collision with ], giving him a time penalty and ended up finishing in 15th place. He received five penalty points on his ].<ref>{{Cite web|last=Morlidge|first=Matt|date=28 March 2021|title=Sebastian Vettel: One crash, two penalties and five penalty points – a tricky Aston Martin debut in Bahrain|url=https://www.skysports.com/f1/news/12477/12259607/sebastian-vettel-one-crash-two-penalties-and-five-penalty-points-a-tricky-aston-martin-debut-in-bahrain|access-date=3 April 2021|website=Sky Sports|archive-date=29 June 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220629200444/https://www.skysports.com/f1/news/12477/12259607/sebastian-vettel-one-crash-two-penalties-and-five-penalty-points-a-tricky-aston-martin-debut-in-bahrain|url-status=live}}</ref> Aston Martin team principal ] reported no concerns, owing to this being a very different car from the Ferrari, lack of laps in pre-season testing and a very impressive race start.<ref>{{Cite web|last1=Collantine|first1=Keith|last2=Rencken|first2=Dieter|date=29 March 2021|title=No alarm bells at Aston Martin over Vettel's troubled debut for team|url=https://www.racefans.net/2021/03/29/no-alarm-bells-at-aston-martin-over-vettels-troubled-debut-for-team/|access-date=13 April 2021|website=RaceFans|archive-date=2 September 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220902005653/https://www.racefans.net/2021/03/29/no-alarm-bells-at-aston-martin-over-vettels-troubled-debut-for-team/|url-status=live}}</ref> In the fifth race of the season, Vettel scored his first points for the team with a fifth-place finish in ].<ref>{{Cite web|date=23 May 2021|title=Verstappen triumphiert in Monaco und knöpft Hamilton WM-Führung ab|trans-title=Verstappen wins in Monaco and takes over Hamilton's World Championship lead|url=https://www.rtl.de/cms/formel-1-in-monaco-max-verstappen-triumphiert-und-knoepft-lewis-hamilton-die-wm-fuehrung-ab-4765451.html|access-date=24 May 2021|website=RTL.de|language=de|archive-date=30 June 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220630105848/https://www.rtl.de/cms/formel-1-in-monaco-max-verstappen-triumphiert-und-knoepft-lewis-hamilton-die-wm-fuehrung-ab-4765451.html|url-status=live}}</ref> At the following race, the ], he claimed Aston Martin's first podium with a second-place finish.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Gale|first=Ewan|date=6 June 2021|title=Vettel "over the moon" after Aston Martin score historic first F1 podium|url=https://www.gpfans.com/en/f1-news/65840/vettel-over-the-moon-after-aston-martin-score-historic-first-f1-podium/|access-date=6 June 2021|website=GPFans|archive-date=25 July 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220725041918/https://www.gpfans.com/en/f1-news/65840/vettel-over-the-moon-after-aston-martin-score-historic-first-f1-podium/|url-status=live}}</ref> Vettel also finished second in ], but was later disqualified, after his car failed to provide the one litre sample of fuel required.<ref>{{Cite web|date=1 August 2021|title=Vettel loses second-place finish in Hungary after disqualification for fuel sample issue|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.breaking-vettel-loses-second-place-finish-in-hungary-after-disqualification.1hHxDLG0ARyAw6q2TCDkiS.html|access-date=1 August 2021|publisher=Formula 1|archive-date=7 October 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211007012247/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.breaking-vettel-loses-second-place-finish-in-hungary-after-disqualification.1hHxDLG0ARyAw6q2TCDkiS.html|url-status=live}}</ref> He ended the season in 12th place in the Drivers' standings, ahead of teammate Stroll.<ref>{{Cite web|title=F1 Standings|url=https://www.gpfans.com/en/f1-standings/2021/|access-date=12 December 2021|website=GPFans|archive-date=29 June 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220629165523/https://www.gpfans.com/en/f1-standings/2021/|url-status=live}}</ref> During the season, Vettel made 132 overtakes—the most of any driver—and won the inaugural ].<ref>{{Cite web|date=13 December 2021|title=Sebastian Vettel wins 2021 Crypto.com Overtake Award|url=https://www.astonmartinf1.com/en-GB/news/announcement/sebastian-vettel-wins-2021-crypto-com-overtake-award|access-date=22 December 2021|publisher=Aston Martin Formula One Team|archive-date=22 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211222221702/https://www.astonmartinf1.com/en-GB/news/announcement/sebastian-vettel-wins-2021-crypto-com-overtake-award|url-status=live}}</ref>


Vettel missed the first two races of the ] in ] and ] after testing positive for ]; he was substituted by Aston Martin's reserve driver ].<ref>{{Cite web |date=17 March 2022 |title=Bahrain Grand Prix: Sebastian Vettel ruled out after positive Covid-19 test |url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/formula1/60778776 |access-date=17 March 2022 |website=BBC Sport |archive-date=2 July 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220702065726/https://www.bbc.com/sport/formula1/60778776 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=25 March 2022 |title=Formula 1: Sebastian Vettel to miss Saudi Arabian Grand Prix due to Covid-19 |url=https://www.skysports.com/amp/f1/news/24182/12574596/formula-1-sebastian-vettel-to-miss-saudi-arabian-grand-prix-due-to-covid-19 |access-date=1 April 2022 |publisher=Sky Sports |archive-date=1 April 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220401060223/https://www.skysports.com/amp/f1/news/24182/12574596/formula-1-sebastian-vettel-to-miss-saudi-arabian-grand-prix-due-to-covid-19 |url-status=live }}</ref> In July 2022, Vettel announced his retirement from Formula One at the end of the 2022 season.<ref>{{Cite web |date=28 July 2022 |title=Sebastian Vettel to retire from F1 at the end of the 2022 season |url=https://www.astonmartinf1.com/en-GB/news/announcement/sebastian-vettel-to-retire-from-f1-at-the-end-of-the-2022-season |access-date=28 July 2022 |publisher=Aston Martin |archive-date=28 July 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220728100446/https://www.astonmartinf1.com/en-GB/news/announcement/sebastian-vettel-to-retire-from-f1-at-the-end-of-the-2022-season |url-status=live }}</ref>
]]]
Vettel's title hopes were dealt another blow in ], where Ferrari were the quickest car and Mercedes were struggling, after a turbo problem caused him to not set a time in qualifying. Having limped home at the end of final practice, Ferrari were forced to put Vettel's fourth and final internal combustion engine of the season in the car, but the turbo remained the problem. Starting last, Vettel fought his way back through the field and eventually finished 4th, although Hamilton's second-place finish extended his championship lead to 34 points. A bizarre crash with the Williams of Lance Stroll on the cool-down in-lap at the end of the race added more misery for Vettel; neither would be penalised. It was feared Vettel's gearbox would have been damaged, causing him to have a five-place grid penalty at the following race, but Ferrari confirmed it was still available to use.


==Driver profile==
If Vettel were mathematically still in the championship, realistically, his now slim hopes of a fifth world title were ended in ]. More reliability issues befell the Ferrari; a spark plug problem just minutes before the race, which saw Vettel's engine cover needing to be taken off. Ferrari believed the issue was fixed, with Vettel starting the race in second in what was a must-win race. However, the spark plug issue remained, and Vettel soon retired from the race. Hamilton's fourth victory in Japan & his fourth win from five after the summer break meant he had a 59-point lead with just 100 points remaining.


===Comparison to Michael Schumacher===
Vettel secured his first podium since Monza in the ], by finishing where he started in second place. He took the lead from Hamilton at the start, but was no match for his rival once the pole sitter reclaimed the lead and cruised to yet another victory. However, Vettel's podium stopped Hamilton from taking his 4th title in Austin.
] after the ], where Vettel won his second World Championship title]]
Vettel's unexpected win at the 2008 Italian Grand Prix led the media to dub him the "Baby Schumi". He was not just dubbed this for his nationality but also because of his driving style, his concentration and the hands-on role he plays behind the scenes with his team of engineers. Vettel played down the comparison stating he wanted to be the "New Vettel".<ref>{{cite news|last=Arron|first=Simon|date=15 September 2008|title=Sebastian Vettel joins Formula One's young fast set with Monza victory|work=The Telegraph|url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/motorsport/formulaone/2964390/Sebastian-Vettel-joins-Formula-Ones-young-fast-set-with-Monza-victory-F1.html |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20220110/https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/motorsport/formulaone/2964390/Sebastian-Vettel-joins-Formula-Ones-young-fast-set-with-Monza-victory-F1.html |archive-date=10 January 2022 |url-access=subscription |url-status=live|access-date=11 August 2010}}{{cbignore}}</ref>


Nevertheless, the similarities were marked. Like Schumacher, Vettel grew up in a small town with an everyday background—Schumacher's father is a bricklayer and Vettel's is a carpenter. Both had their first taste of racing at the Kerpen karting track near Cologne, not far from the ]. Vettel began driving in his garden lapping the garden many times before he could legally take to the roads, and said his passion for cars was nurtured by watching Schumacher compete.<ref>{{cite news|last=Gray|first=Will|date=9 August 2009|title=My life in cars: Sebastian Vettel|work=The Times|url=http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/driving/features/article6779690.ece|access-date=19 July 2010|archive-date=23 March 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230323204909/https://www.thetimes.co.uk/|url-status=dead}}</ref>
In ], Vettel became the fourth driver in Formula One history to claim 50 pole positions, joining Hamilton, ] and ]. Verstappen took the lead from Vettel at the start, before he collided with Hamilton. Vettel needed a new front wing, whilst Hamilton suffered a puncture. Hamilton would finish in 9th, meaning Vettel had to win the race. Despite a good recovery, 4th was all Vettel could get, meaning Hamilton won his 4th title, joining ], ], Schumacher and Vettel himself as quadruple world champions. For the first time in his career, Vettel had failed to win the Drivers' Championship having led it at some stage during a season.


After winning his first championship in 2010, and being hailed as the "Next Schumacher", Vettel stated he did not want to aim for Schumacher's record after learning how hard it was to get one championship under his belt, though he would like to win more.<ref>{{cite web|last=Harley|first=Donald|date=23 November 2010|title=Sebastian Vettel refuses to compare himself to Michael Schumacher|url=http://blogs.bettor.com/Sebastian-Vettel-refuses-to-compare-himself-to-Michael-Schumacher-a43079|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101126151615/http://blogs.bettor.com/Sebastian-Vettel-refuses-to-compare-himself-to-Michael-Schumacher-a43079|archive-date=26 November 2010|access-date=23 November 2010|work=Bettor}}</ref> In 2011, Pirelli director ] was impressed when Vettel was the only driver to take the time to visit the factory and talk to the tyre manufacturer to gain a better insight. "The only other driver that asks us a lot of questions is Michael Schumacher. It is like seeing the master and the protégé at work."<ref>{{cite news|last=Noble|first=Jonathan|date=14 September 2011|title=How Vettel got an edge over his rivals|work=Autosport.com|url=http://plus.autosport.com/premium/feature/3872/how-vettel-got-an-edge-over-his-rivals/|access-date=27 November 2012|archive-date=4 March 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304023541/http://plus.autosport.com/premium/feature/3872/how-vettel-got-an-edge-over-his-rivals/|url-status=live}}</ref>
A 5th win of the year for Vettel came in the penultimate race in ]. With Hamilton having crashed out in Q1 and poised to start at the back of the grid, it was the perfect opportunity to take his first back-to-back pole positions since 2013. However, he was pipped to pole by Bottas in qualifying in the dying seconds. Vettel jumped the Finn at the start, and despite coming under pressure from him after his one and only pit-stop, he ultimately controlled the race to take the 47th victory of his career, while Hamilton recovered to 4th, only 5 seconds behind Vettel.


After Schumacher was severely injured in a skiing accident in late 2013, Vettel was on hand to collect the Millennium-] for Schumacher's life achievements on his behalf in 2014.<ref>{{cite web|title=Bambi 2014: Stars and heroes meet in Berlin|url=http://www.bambi-awards.com/bambi-2014-stars-and-heroes-meet-in-berlin/22410|access-date=29 March 2015|website=Bambi Awards|archive-date=13 February 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180213002131/http://www.bambi-awards.com/bambi-2014-stars-and-heroes-meet-in-berlin/22410|url-status=live}}</ref> In 2014, Vettel cited Schumacher as one of his inspirations in becoming a Scuderia Ferrari driver: "When I was a kid, Michael Schumacher in the red car was my greatest idol and now it's an incredible honour to finally get the chance to drive a Ferrari."<ref>{{cite web|last=Galloway|first=James|date=24 November 2014|title=It's Official: Fernando Alonso leaving Ferrari to be replaced by Sebastian Vettel in 2015|url=http://www1.skysports.com/f1/news/12474/9570867/its-official-fernando-alonso-leaving-ferrari-to-be-replaced-by-sebastian-vettel-in-2015|access-date=20 November 2014|website=Sky Sports|archive-date=12 February 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180212201702/http://www.skysports.com/f1/news/12474/9570867/its-official-fernando-alonso-leaving-ferrari-to-be-replaced-by-sebastian-vettel-in-2015|url-status=live}}</ref>
Vettel wrapped up the runners-up spot in the championship at the final race in ], taking his 13th podium of the season. Mercedes dominated the weekend, with Bottas taking pole and victory ahead of Hamilton, leaving Vettel having to settle for the final podium spot. This podium was Vettel's 99th, in his 198th race, leaving him with a 50% podium success rate during his career at the end of 2017.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://scroll.in/field/859344/valtteri-bottas-wins-as-mercedes-secure-one-two-finish-at-season-ending-abu-dhabi-grand-prix|title=Valtteri Bottas wins as Mercedes secure one-two finish at season-ending Abu Dhabi Grand Prix|last=AFP|website=Scroll.in|language=en-US|access-date=2019-04-03}}</ref>


===Helmet===
====2018: The "Fight For Five" vs Hamilton====
]
{{See also|2018 Formula One World Championship}}
From his karting days, Vettel worked with helmet designer Jens Munser. At the age of eight, Vettel wanted ] from '']'' on his helmet.<ref name="jmd">{{cite web|last=Bellingham|first=Tom|date=9 December 2012|title=Racing isn't just a sport, it's a show|url=http://www.redbull.com/en/motorsports/f1/stories/1331579592071/-racing-isn-t-just-a-sport-it-s-a-show-|access-date=9 December 2012|website=Red Bull|archive-date=12 December 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121212020831/http://www.redbull.com/en/motorsports/f1/stories/1331579592071/-racing-isn-t-just-a-sport-it-s-a-show-|url-status=live}}</ref> Vettel's original helmet in Formula One, like most Red Bull-backed drivers, was heavily influenced by the energy drink company logo. New to Vettel's helmet at the start of 2008 was the incorporation of the red cross shape of the ] ] on the front, just underneath the visor, in honour of the region of his birthplace, Heppenheim.
{{BLP sources section|date=April 2018}}
]


After switching to Red Bull in 2009, Vettel regularly used a variety of new helmet designs. Some designs were small changes to his original Red Bull design, while others were completely new designs, such as the one he used at the 2010 Japanese Grand Prix: Vettel had a special white-red helmet design, with black ] and ] for "gives you wings". Several of his helmet designs also featured his team members.<ref>{{cite web|last=Collantine|first=Keith|date=15 January 2013|title=The many helmets of Sebastian Vettel|url=http://www.f1fanatic.co.uk/2013/01/15/helmets-sebastian-vettel/|access-date=15 January 2013|website=RaceFans|archive-date=10 August 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170810061355/http://www.f1fanatic.co.uk/2013/01/15/helmets-sebastian-vettel/|url-status=live}}</ref> At the 2012 Italian Grand Prix, Vettel celebrated his 50th helmet design with a 'rusty' matte look and 50 tallies, indicating his 50 helmet designs in Formula One.<ref>{{cite web|date=7 September 2012|title=Helmet Italy 2012|url=http://sebastianvettel.de/index.php/en/helmdesign-fans-en/532-helmet-italy-2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121028075757/http://www.sebastianvettel.de/index.php/en/helmdesign-fans-en/532-helmet-italy-2012|archive-date=28 October 2012|access-date=27 November 2012|website=Sebastian Vettel}}</ref> Vettel started his 2013 campaign with a design in honour of ], for his world record ] space jump in October 2012.<ref>{{cite news|last=Gover|first=Paul|date=15 March 2013|title=Vettel relies on Felix and Heidi|work=Carsguide|url=http://www.carsguide.com.au/news-and-reviews/motorsports/vettel_relies_on_felix_and_heidi|access-date=15 March 2013|archive-date=6 January 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140106090002/http://www.carsguide.com.au/news-and-reviews/motorsports/vettel_relies_on_felix_and_heidi|url-status=live}}</ref> By the end of the 2013 season, he had used 76 different helmet designs throughout his career.<ref>{{cite web|date=14 January 2014|title=Formel 1-Kopfschutz 76 Mal anders|url=http://www.auto-motor-und-sport.de/formel-1/helme-von-sebastian-vettel-kopfschutz-76-mal-anders-7982270.html|access-date=14 January 2014|website=Auto, Motor und Sport|language=de|archive-date=1 December 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171201082059/https://www.auto-motor-und-sport.de/formel-1/helme-von-sebastian-vettel-kopfschutz-76-mal-anders-7982270.html|url-status=dead}}</ref>
For the first time in Formula One history, two quadruple world champions, in the form of Vettel and ], would line-up at the start of a season. Like 2017, it was expected that the two would be the main title protagonists, and their battle was dubbed the "Fight For Five" by media and fans alike, with both looking to join ] and ] as just the third man in the sport's history to reach five championships.


For the 2017 Italian Grand Prix he changed the German flag stripe on his helmet to an Italian flag stripe in celebration of Ferrari's home race.<ref>{{cite web|last=Delaney|first=Michael|date=1 September 2017|title=Vettel's helmet gets an 'Italian job' for Monza|url=http://www.f1i.com/news/278406-vettels-helmet-gets-italian-job-monza.html|access-date=24 August 2018|work=F1i.com|archive-date=24 August 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180824070012/http://www.f1i.com/news/278406-vettels-helmet-gets-italian-job-monza.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Following the death of ], Vettel wore a special helmet based on Lauda's final Ferrari helmet at the ].<ref>{{Cite web|last=Osten|first=Phillip van|date=23 May 2019|title=F1i Pic of the Day: Vettel goes full 'Niki' with special tribute lid|url=https://f1i.com/images/341837-vettel-goes-full-niki-with-special-tribute-lid.html|access-date=23 May 2019|website=F1i.com|archive-date=23 May 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190523211639/https://f1i.com/images/341837-vettel-goes-full-niki-with-special-tribute-lid.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Vettel carried the German flag stripe design over to his helmet designs during his time at Aston Martin, with his final design for the 2022 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix nicknamed "The Final Lap".<ref>{{cite web |url=https://finallap.de/en/ |title=Sebastian Vettel - Final Lap |access-date=12 November 2023 |archive-date=30 September 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230930233659/https://finallap.de/en/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
For the second consecutive year, Vettel began his season with victory in ], the 48th of his career. A Virtual Safety Car allowed him to finish ahead of Hamilton and teammate ]. The result was his 100th podium (with only Schumacher, Hamilton and Prost having more), whilst he also became just the 3rd man in Formula One history (after Schumacher and Hamilton) to have led 3000 laps.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/43525895|title=Sebastian Vettel leapfrogs Lewis Hamilton to take Australian GP win|website=BBC Sport|date=25 March 2018}}</ref>


===Car names===
In ], Vettel took his first pole of the season and the 51st of his career. He maintained the lead through the first round of pit-stops and held off Mercedes's ] despite being on 39 lap old soft tyres, to take a record fourth victory in Bahrain.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/43683493|title=Sebastian Vettel wins, Lewis Hamilton 3rd after fine overtake|website=BBC Sport|date= 8 April 2018}}</ref>
{{multiple image
| width = 200
| direction = vertical
| image1 = Sebastian Vettel won 2010 Malaysian GP.jpg
| alt1 = Sebastian Vettel driving the Red Bull RB6: "Luscious Liz" and "Randy Mandy" (2010)
| image2 = Sebastian Vettel 2011 Malaysia FP3.jpg
| alt2 = Sebastian Vettel driving the Red Bull RB7: "Kinky Kylie" (2011)
| image3 = Sebastian Vettel 2012 Malaysia FP3.jpg
| alt3 = Sebastian Vettel driving the Red Bull RB8: "Abbey" (2012)
| image4 = Sebastian Vettel 2013 Catalonia test (19-22 Feb) Day 1-2.jpg
| alt4 = Sebastian Vettel driving the Red Bull RB9: "Hungry Heidi" (2013)
| footer = Vettel's four championship-winning cars from top-to-bottom: ] ({{F1|2010}}), ] ({{F1|2011}}), ] ({{F1|2012}}) and ] ({{F1|2013}})
}}


Inspired by American bomber pilots during ], Vettel made it a tradition to name each of his cars in Formula One from {{F1|2008}} to {{F1|2021}}, stating "it's important to have a close relationship with a car. Like a ship, a car should be named after a girl as it's sexy".<ref name=":0">{{cite news|last=Allen|first=James|date=23 May 2010|title=What should Vettel name his car?|work=Motorsport.com|url=http://www.jamesallenonf1.com/2010/05/what-should-vettel-name-his-new-car/|access-date=11 March 2014|archive-date=12 March 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140312014917/http://www.jamesallenonf1.com/2010/05/what-should-vettel-name-his-new-car/|url-status=dead}}</ref>
The following weekend in ], Vettel again took pole position. Having maintained the lead from the start, Vettel was undercut by Bottas during the first pit-stop before being hit by Red Bull's ], causing both to spin. Vettel limped home in 8th place, with his championship lead reduced to 9 points.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/43764416|title=Daniel Ricciardo wins Chinese GP after series of overtakes|website=BBC Sport|date=15 April 2018}}</ref>


The car Vettel drove during his first full season in {{F1|2008}}—the ]—was named ''Julie'', with which he took his maiden victory at the {{F1GP|2008|Italian}}.<ref name="Julie">{{cite news|url=https://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/formula-1/sebastian-vettel-names-new-red-1762781|title=Say hello to "Hungry Heidi": Sebastian Vettel names his new Red Bull car for 2013|work=Daily Mirror|date=14 March 2013|access-date=3 January 2015}}</ref> Upon moving to ] in {{F1|2009}}, he initially named the ] ''Kate'', but renamed it to ''Kate's Dirty Sister'' following his collision with ] at the season-opening {{F1GP|2009|Australian}}.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://motorsport.com/news/article.asp?ID=359680&FS=F1|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120718021637/http://motorsport.com/news/article.asp?ID=359680&FS=F1|url-status=dead|archive-date=18 July 2012|title=Vettel names 2010 car 'Luscious Liz'|publisher=Motorsport.com|date=8 March 2010|access-date=10 March 2010}}</ref> The ] in {{F1|2010}} was Vettel's first championship-winning car, at first called ''Luscious Liz'' before a chassis change saw its renaming to ''Randy Mandy'' from the {{F1GP|2010|Turkish}} onwards.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/vettel-names-new-chassis-randy-mandy/|work=motorsport.com|publisher=GMM|date=27 May 2010|title=Vettel names new chassis 'Randy Mandy'|access-date=5 December 2017|archive-date=6 December 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171206135913/https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/vettel-names-new-chassis-randy-mandy/|url-status=dead}}</ref> Vettel's further three consecutive championship-winning machines were named ] ({{F1|2011}}), ] ({{F1|2012}}) and ] ({{F1|2013}}),<ref name="Julie"/> the latter of which saw Vettel equal ]'s ] from {{F1|2004}}, and win a ] nine consecutive races.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.skysports.com/f1/news/12527/9040477/2013-brazilian-gp-nine-in-a-row-sebastian-vettel-leads-retiring-webber-in-red-bull-1-2#:~:text=Get%20Sky%20F1-,2013%20Brazilian%20GP%3A%20Nine-in-a-row%20Sebastian,in%20Red%20Bull%201-2&text=Sebastian%20Vettel%20rounded%20off%20his,2%20at%20the%20Brazilian%20GP.|title=2013 Brazilian GP: Nine-in-a-row Sebastian Vettel leads retiring Webber in Red Bull 1-2|work=Sky Sports News|date=24 November 2013|access-date=17 October 2024|first=James|last=Galloway}}</ref> {{F1|2014}}'s ] was named ''Suzie'', the only car he did not win with at Red Bull.<ref>{{cite news|title=Vettel opts for Suzie as name for his 2014 car|url=http://uk.reuters.com/article/uk-motor-racing-vettel-idUKBREA2A22E20140311|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160306154506/http://uk.reuters.com/article/uk-motor-racing-vettel-idUKBREA2A22E20140311|url-status=dead|archive-date=March 6, 2016|first=Alan|last=Baldwin|work=]|publisher=]|date=11 March 2014|access-date=12 March 2014}}</ref>
For the first time since 2013, Vettel took three consecutive poles, as he took his 53rd career pole in ]. This was the 23rd different Grand Prix at which he had taken a pole, equalling Hamilton's record.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.statsf1.com/en/statistiques/pilote/pole/detail-sebastian-vettel--grandprix-different.aspx|title=Vettel takes pole at 23rd different Grand Prix|website=statsf1|date=28 April 2018}}</ref> Vettel led from the start until his first stop, when he moved down to second position behind Bottas, who had not stopped yet. A Safety Car was deployed after the two Red Bulls collided, which allowed Bottas to finally pit and emerge ahead of Vettel, who then locked-up at turn one at the restart trying to retake the lead from the Finn, but ended up losing 2 places instead, plus another one to Pérez because of his flat-spotted tyres. Hamilton went on to win the race, while Vettel finished in fourth and subsequently lost the championship lead to the Brit.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/43941986|title=Lewis Hamilton wins Azerbaijan Grand Prix after Red Bulls clash|website=BBC Sport|date=29 April 2018}}</ref>


Vettel continued this tradition with ], naming the ] ''Eva'' in {{F1|2015}}.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://en.espnf1.com/ferrari/motorsport/story/194247.html|title=Sebastian Vettel names first Ferrari 'Eva'|work=ESPN F1|publisher=ESPN|date=13 March 2015|access-date=4 April 2015}}</ref> His subsequent Ferrari challengers were named ] ({{F1|2016}}), ] ({{F1|2017}}), ] ({{F1|2018}}), ] ({{F1|2019}}) and ] ({{F1|2020}}).<ref>{{Cite web|date=12 March 2020|title=F1, Vettel ha scelto: la nuova Ferrari SF1000: si chiama Lucilla. Tutti i nomi|trans-title=F1, Vettel has chosen: the new Ferrari SF1000: it's called Lucilla. All names|url=https://sport.sky.it/formula-1/2020/03/12/f1-vettel-ha-scelto-nome-nuova-ferrari-sf1000-lucilla|access-date=12 August 2020|website=Sky Sport|language=it|archive-date=28 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210728094637/https://sport.sky.it/formula-1/2020/03/12/f1-vettel-ha-scelto-nome-nuova-ferrari-sf1000-lucilla|url-status=live}}</ref> In {{F1|2021}}, Vettel named his ] after ], the ] from the ] film '']'' (1962), in a nod to ]'s ] with the franchise.<ref>{{Cite news|date=25 March 2021|title=The name's Ryder, Honey Ryder for Vettel's Aston Martin F1 car|publisher=Reuters|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/motor-f1-bahrain-vettel-int-idUSKBN2BH2ZY|access-date=25 March 2021|archive-date=25 March 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210325194634/https://www.reuters.com/article/motor-f1-bahrain-vettel-int-idUSKBN2BH2ZY|url-status=live}}</ref> Amidst struggles with car performance in {{F1|2022}}, Vettel said he would wait for upgrades to the ] before naming it;<ref>{{Cite news |last=Smith |first=Luk |date=2022-04-08 |title=Vettel will wait for "more pace" before naming Aston Martin F1 car |url=https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/vettel-will-wait-for-more-pace-before-naming-aston-martin-f1-car/9709356/ |access-date=2024-06-21 |work=] |publisher=] |archive-date=21 June 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240621090847/https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/vettel-will-wait-for-more-pace-before-naming-aston-martin-f1-car/9709356/ |url-status=live }}</ref> no name for the AMR22 was ever publicised, ending Vettel's 14-year tradition.
Vettel missed out on a podium for a third consecutive race in ], as he finished 4th, with Hamilton winning again to extend his championship lead to 17 points.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/44094552|title=Lewis Hamilton dominates Spanish Grand Prix, Sebastian Vettel finish fourth|website=BBC Sport|date=13 May 2018}}</ref>


{| class="wikitable" style="font-size:85%"
A return to the podium came for Vettel in ] as he finished 2nd behind ]. With Hamilton 3rd, Vettel reduced the championship lead to 14 points.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/44272147|title=Monaco Grand Prix: Daniel Ricciardo fends off Sebastian Vettel for victory|website=BBC Sport|date=27 May 2018}}</ref>
|+

!Season
Vettel took his fourth pole of the season in ]. He converted pole into his third victory of the season and the 50th of his career, becoming just the fourth man in F1 history to reach a half-century of wins (after Prost, Schumacher and Hamilton). It was also the 14th time in Vettel's career he led a race from start to finish, with only Senna (19) having more. He left Montreal with a one-point lead in the championship, after Hamilton had a difficult weekend at one of his best tracks and only finished 5th.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/44432978|title=Canadian Grand Prix: Sebastian Vettel wins to take lead in title race|website=BBC Sport|date=10 June 2018}}</ref>
!Constructor

!Chassis
F1 returned to ] for the first time in a decade and was the first of an unprecedented three races in as many weekends. Vettel qualified in 3rd, behind the two Mercedes. Starting on the ultrasofts, Vettel got a good start and was challenging Bottas for 2nd. However, he locked up and collided with the Finn, suffering front wing damage. He received a five-second penalty and eventually recovered to finish 5th. Hamilton cruised to victory, to retake the championship lead, leaving Paul Ricard with an advantage of 14 points.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/44595085|title=Lewis Hamilton wins French Grand Prix after Sebastian Vettel penalty|website=BBC Sport|date=24 June 2018}}</ref>
!Name(s)

!Wins
For the second consecutive race, Vettel qualified in 3rd behind both Mercedes, this time in ]. However, Vettel received a three-place grid penalty for impeding the Renault of ] in Q2, meaning he started 6th. With Hamilton starting 2nd, it appeared it would be damage limitation. However, both Mercedes retired from the race with mechanical problems, with Vettel recovering to finish 3rd. As a result, Vettel left Spielberg with a one-point lead in the drivers' championship.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/44674405|title=Lewis Hamilton retires from Austrian GP as Max Verstappen wins|website=BBC Sport|date=1 July 2018}}</ref>
|-

!{{F1|2008}}
The final part of F1's first ever triple header came in ], where Hamilton and Mercedes had dominated in recent years, whereas Vettel and Ferrari had had difficulties. Vettel suffered neck problems after final practice, but did manage to take part in qualifying, where he was pipped to pole by Hamilton by less than half a tenth. Vettel took the lead at the start, while Hamilton was crashed by Räikkönen, dropping him to the back of the field. However, two Safety Cars saw Vettel lose the lead (having pitted for a second time), leaving him behind Bottas who had very old tyres. Vettel passed the Finn with five laps to go and went on to take his 51st victory, moving him into joint-3rd on the all-time list with ]. Hamilton finished 2nd despite his first lap collision. Vettel left Silverstone with an eight-point advantage in the drivers' championship.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/44758572|title=Sebastian Vettel wins British GP, Lewis Hamilton fight back|website=BBC Sport|date=8 July 2018}}</ref>
|]

|]
Vettel qualified on pole at his home race in ], and led for much of the race, but he then made a mistake, slid off the track and hit the wall on Lap 51 as rain started to fall, causing his first retirement of the season. Hamilton took victory despite having started from 14th on the grid, giving him a 17-point lead over Vettel.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/44912617|title=German Grand Prix: Lewis Hamilton wins after Sebastian Vettel crashes out|website=BBC Sport|date=22 July 2018}}</ref>
|Julie

|style="text-align:center"|1
In ], Ferrari appeared to be the team to beat, but Vettel only qualified 4th in a wet qualifying, with Hamilton on pole. Vettel eventually finished in 2nd despite a late collision with Bottas, but Hamilton's comfortable win gave him a 24-point lead going into the summer break.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/44998769|title=Hungarian Grand Prix: Lewis Hamilton wins to extend title lead|website=BBC Sport|date=29 July 2018}}</ref>
|-

!{{F1|2009}}
The sport made its return from the summer break in ]. For the second consecutive race weekend, rain hampered hopes for Vettel claiming pole, with Hamilton once again shining in the wet. However, Vettel passed Hamilton on the Kemmel Straight on the opening lap and controlled proceedings from there on, cutting Hamilton's title advantage to 17 points. His 3rd win at Spa moved Vettel into 3rd on his own for wins (52) and podiums (107), ahead of Prost, with only Schumacher and Hamilton now ahead of him.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/45314905|title=Sebastian Vettel wins in Belgium after dramatic crash|website=BBC Sport|date=26 August 2018}}</ref>
|rowspan=6|]

|]
The following weekend was Ferrari's home race in ], with the long straights of Monza expected to give the Scuderia and Vettel the advantage over the Mercedes and Hamilton. For the first time in eight years, the Prancing Horse took pole in front of the Tifosi, but it was teammate Räikkönen who pipped the championship contenders to top spot, with the fastest lap (average speed of 163.793mph) in Formula One history. Vettel joined him on the front row, giving Ferrari their 60th front row lock out in F1 (the first time Ferrari had done this in Italy for 24 years). However, contact on the opening lap with Hamilton saw Vettel damage his front wing and drop to the back of the field. He recovered to cross the finishing line in 5th, but moved up to 4th with a penalty for Verstappen. Hamilton went on to win for the 5th time at Monza, meaning Vettel was now 30 points behind Hamilton.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/45389088|title=Italian GP: Lewis Hamilton passes Kimi Räikkönen to win thriller, Vettel fourth|website=BBC Sport|date=2 September 2018}}</ref>
|Kate<br>Kate's Dirty Sister{{efn|Vettel renamed the ] from ''Kate'' to ''Kate's Dirty Sister'' after his collision with ] at the ].}}

|style="text-align:center"|4
After Ferrari's disappointing home race, Vettel and his team headed to ] knowing victory was essential in closing the gap to Hamilton and Mercedes, who, despite having won three of the last four races at the Marina Bay circuit, had historically struggled for outright pace there. With the Scuderia heading into qualifying as favourites, Vettel appeared to be the man to beat as he chased a record 5th pole around the Singapore streets. However, he would only qualify 3rd, some six-tenths off the quickest time, with Hamilton compounding his misery by producing a stunning lap for pole and Verstappen sandwiched between the championship contenders. Despite passing Verstappen on the opening lap, the Dutchman would move back ahead of Vettel after their one and only pit-stop. Hamilton cruised to victory, with Vettel 3rd, leaving him 40 points behind the Brit with just six races to go.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/45540380|title=Lewis Hamilton wins in Singapore with Sebastian Vettel third|website=BBC Sport|date=16 September 2018}}</ref>
|-

!{{F1|2010}}
] also proved to be difficult for Vettel and Ferrari, qualifying half a second off pole, with Mercedes locking out the front row. Bottas led Hamilton and Vettel away from the front, and despite jumping Hamilton during the pit stop, the Brit would overtake Vettel a lap later. Vettel would finish where he started, whilst team orders at Mercedes saw Bottas let Hamilton through, who would go on to win in Sochi for the third time, extending his championship lead to 50 points, the equivalent of two race victories with five races to go.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/45698908|title=Lewis Hamilton wins in Russia after team orders|website=BBC Sport|date=30 September 2018}}</ref>
|''']'''

|'''Luscious Liz<br>Randy Mandy'''{{efn|Vettel renamed the ] from ''Luscious Liz'' to ''Randy Mandy'' following a chassis change after the ].}}
Vettel's championship hopes were dealt a further blow in ] as he only qualified in 9th, with title rival Hamilton taking his 80th career pole. At the start of Q3, the two Ferraris were sent out on intermediates, on a track which was too dry, calling into question another poor strategy choice by the Scuderia. However, the rain would start to fall again and as Vettel had ran wide at the Spoon curve on his one and only fast lap, he would not be able to improve; he would start 8th thanks to a penalty for ]. Vettel made a fast start, moving up to fourth after the opening lap. Verstappen in 3rd received a five-second penalty for colliding with Räikkönen, meaning Vettel was already in a net podium place. However, with his title hopes slipping away, he needed to take a risk to challenge Hamilton and the Mercedes. He would collide with the Dutchman, and fell to the back of the field as a result. He would only finish 6th, whilst Hamilton took his 50th win for Mercedes, meaning his championship challenge was all but over, 67 points behind with just 100 points remaining.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/45775299|title=Lewis Hamilton wins Japanese GP & closes on fifth world title|website=BBC Sport|date=7 October 2018}}</ref>
|style="text-align:center"|'''5'''

|-
In the ], Vettel was given a three-place grid penalty for failing to slow down sufficiently during a red flag period in first practice. Having narrowly missed out on setting the fastest time in qualifying to Hamilton, it meant he would start in 5th. Vettel maintained his position at the start, with teammate Räikkönen taking the lead from Hamilton. However, for the second consecutive race, Vettel spun trying to overtake a Red Bull, this time Ricciardo, which saw him drop down the field. He would eventually finish 4th, but his slim title hopes were still just about alive, as Hamilton only finished 3rd, leaving him 70 points behind the Brit with 75 points available.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/45934593|title=Lewis Hamilton loses out on fifth title in United States GP|website=BBC Sport|date=21 October 2018}}</ref>
!{{F1|2011}}

|''']'''
Vettel claimed his first ever podium in ], but with Verstappen winning, 2nd place was not enough to keep his championship hopes alive, with Hamilton's 4th place finish giving the Brit his 5th world title.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/46012327|title=Lewis Hamilton equals Juan Manuel Fangio with fifth F1 title|website=BBC Sport|date=28 October 2018}}</ref> This result meant Vettel would finish as runner-up in the standings for the third time, after ] and ]. Just like the previous season, Vettel lost the title with 2 races to go, however this time with no reliability issues at all.
|'''Kinky Kylie'''

|style="text-align:center"|'''11'''
In ], Vettel was pipped to pole by Hamilton, but was investigated after being adjudged to have failed to follow stewards' instructions at the weighbridge. At the start of Q2, following an exploratory lap, Vettel pitted to change tyres and get a time in before rain fell, but was called for his car to be weighed. He initially refused to stop his engine, and did not wait for the officials to push the car off the scales, instead driving off and causing his real wheels to spin and subsequently destroy the scales. After seeing the stewards, Vettel received a reprimand and a €25k fine, but not a grid penalty and kept his front row start.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.skysports.com/f1/news/12527/11542760/brazil-gp-sebastian-vettel-facing-qualifying-investigation|title=Brazilian GP: Fined Sebastian Vettel escapes grid penalty|website=Sky Sports|date=10 November 2018}}</ref> He finished the race down in 6th behind both Mercedes, both Red Bulls, and his teammate, struggling for pace throughout.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/46173103|title=Lewis Hamilton wins after Max Verstappen collides with Esteban Ocon in Brazil|website=BBC Sport|date=11 November 2018}}</ref>
|-

!{{F1|2012}}
At the final race of the season in ], Vettel qualified third, but an overtake on Bottas, who was struggling for pace and made a lock-up, saw Vettel finishing the race in second, his 12th podium of the campaign. Hamilton took his 11th victory of the year to take Vettel's record of most points in a year; his tally of 408 overtaking Vettel's 397 in 2013.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/46336162|title=Lewis Hamilton ends season with Abu Dhabi win|website=BBC Sport|date=25 November 2018}}</ref>
|''']'''

|'''Abbey'''
The "Fight For Five" ended with Vettel losing the title by 88 points against Hamilton, the biggest margin in his F1 career that he has lost the championship as a runner-up.
|style="text-align:center"|'''5'''

|-
====2019====
!{{F1|2013}}
{{See also|2019 Formula One World Championship}}
|''']'''

|'''Hungry Heidi'''
After showing impressive pace throughout pre-season testing in Barcelona, Vettel and Ferrari headed to ] with many pundits believing they were the car to beat.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.ferrari-on-fire-what-we-learned-from-2019-f1-pre-season-testing.2d7IdiDuAfTgi0NOi21MYe.html|title=FERRARI ON FIRE: What we learned from 2019 F1 Pre-Season Testing|website=Formula 1|date=3 March 2019}}</ref> However, the opening weekend of the season would prove to be difficult, as Vettel qualified 3rd, but some seven tenths off ] and pole position. He would finish the race 4th, after pitting earliest of the front runners and being overtaken by ] on fresher tyres.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/47600736|title=Valtteri Bottas wins Australian GP after Lewis Hamilton overtake|website=BBC Sport|date=17 March 2019}}</ref>
|style="text-align:center"|'''13'''

|-
In ], Ferrari returned to form as they locked out the front row, although Vettel qualified 2nd behind new teammate ], after only having one lap in the third and final part of qualifying. Vettel took the lead at the start, only for Leclerc to retake the advantage of the race on lap 6. With Leclerc pulling away, Vettel came under pressure from Hamilton, who undercut him after the first round of pit stops. However, Vettel moved back into 2nd and maintained position after their second and final pit-stops. Yet Hamilton again moved past Vettel a couple of laps later at turn four, with Vettel's woes compounded as he spun and then suffered a front wing failure. He eventually finished 5th, as Hamilton inherited victory after a spark plug failure for Leclerc.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/47767114|title=Lewis Hamilton wins Bahrain GP after Charles Leclerc loses power|website=BBC Sport|date=31 March 2019}}</ref>
!{{F1|2014}}

|]
Vettel claimed his first podium of the season in ], finishing 3rd, as the two Mercedes made it a third consecutive 1-2. Having qualified 3rd, Vettel was passed by Leclerc at the start, but moved back in front after team orders from Ferrari. After holding off Verstappen's Red Bull following the first round of pit stops, he brought the car home in the final podium position, just missing out on an extra point for fastest lap after the other Red Bull of ] pitted late on for fresh tyres and took it from him.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/47924974|title=Lewis Hamilton wins F1's race 1,000 in China|website=BBC Sport|date=14 April 2019}}</ref>
|Suzie
|style="text-align:center"|0
|-
!{{F1|2015}}
|rowspan=6|]
|]
|Eva
|style="text-align:center"|3
|-
!{{F1|2016}}
|]
|Margherita
|style="text-align:center"|0
|-
!{{F1|2017}}
|]
|Gina
|style="text-align:center"|5
|-
!{{F1|2018}}
|]
|Loria
|style="text-align:center"|5
|-
!{{F1|2019}}
|]
|Lina
|style="text-align:center"|1
|-
!{{F1|2020}}
|]
|Lucilla
|style="text-align:center"|0
|-
!{{F1|2021}}
|]
|]
|]
|style="text-align:center"|0
|}


===Awards and honours===
A second consecutive 3rd place finish came for Vettel in ], as the two Mercedes secured yet another 1-2 finish, leaving Vettel 35 and 34 points behind Bottas and Hamilton respectively.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/48084605|title=Valtteri Bottas beats Lewis Hamilton to Azerbaijan win|website=BBC Sport|date=28 April 2019}}</ref>
Vettel was named Rookie of the Year at the 2008 ]. In 2009, Vettel was awarded the ], for his achievements in the 2008 season. He was also awarded the 2009 ] Johnny Wakefield Trophy for "setting the fastest race lap of the season on the Silverstone Grand Prix Circuit".<ref>{{Cite web|title=BRDC Annual Awards 2009|url=http://www.brdc.co.uk/BRDC-Annual-Awards-2009|access-date=11 January 2021|website=British Racing Drivers' Club|archive-date=2 December 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201202084641/http://www.brdc.co.uk/BRDC-Annual-Awards-2009|url-status=live}}</ref> In 2010, Vettel was voted ] and won the ''Autosport'' International Racing Driver Award, which he also won in the following three years.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Tremayne |first=Sam |date=2 December 2013 |title=Autosport Awards 2013: Sebastian Vettel wins International Driver |url=https://www.autosport.com/general/news/autosport-awards-2013-sebastian-vettel-wins-international-driver-4469901/4469901/ |access-date=7 December 2022 |website=Autosport |archive-date=7 December 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221207224113/https://www.autosport.com/general/news/autosport-awards-2013-sebastian-vettel-wins-international-driver-4469901/4469901/ |url-status=live }}</ref> In January 2012, Vettel was honoured with the Grands Prix de l'Academie des Sports, and in February, he was further honoured with the ], in recognition of his world titles and his "exemplary character".<ref>{{cite web|last=Allen|first=James|date=24 February 2012|title=Vettel Honoured by German Nation|url=http://www.jamesallenonf1.com/2012/02/vettel-honoured-by-german-nation/|access-date=24 February 2012|work=Motorsport.com|archive-date=30 January 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130130213655/http://www.jamesallenonf1.com/2012/02/vettel-honoured-by-german-nation/|url-status=dead}}</ref> Vettel was voted Formula One driver of the year in 2009,<ref>{{Cite web|last=Hazle|first=Alex|date=19 November 2009|title=F1 Team Bosses Hail Vettel|url=https://www.redbull.com/cs/Satellite/en_INT/Article/F1-team-bosses-hail-Vettel-021242794120324|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100516160553/https://www.redbull.com/cs/Satellite/en_INT/Article/F1-team-bosses-hail-Vettel-021242794120324|archive-date=16 May 2010|access-date=12 August 2020|website=Red Bull}}</ref> 2011<ref>{{cite news|last=Noble|first=Jonathan|date=21 December 2011|title=The F1 team principals' top ten drivers|work=Autosport.com|url=http://plus.autosport.com/free/feature/4122/the-f1-team-principals-top-ten-drivers/|access-date=25 May 2014|archive-date=6 September 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150906045033/http://plus.autosport.com/free/feature/4122/the-f1-team-principals-top-ten-drivers/|url-status=live}}</ref> and 2013<ref>{{cite news|last=Noble|first=Jonathan|date=12 December 2013|title=Formula 1 team bosses vote Sebastian Vettel as best driver for 2013|work=Autosport.com|url=http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/111829|access-date=25 May 2014|archive-date=12 March 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170312232450/http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/111829|url-status=live}}</ref> by the team principals, initiated by the ''Autosport'' magazine. He additionally won the ] in 2009, 2012 and 2013. He was named European Sportsperson of the Year by the International Sports Press Association in 2010,<ref>{{cite web|last=Wilkins|first=Robert|date=7 January 2011|title=Vettel takes European Sportsman of Year honours|url=http://www.crash.net/f1/news/165776/1/vettel-claims-european-sportsman-of-year-honours.html|access-date=21 August 2015|website=Crash.net|archive-date=23 September 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150923222834/http://www.crash.net/f1/news/165776/1/vettel-claims-european-sportsman-of-year-honours.html|url-status=dead}}</ref> and by the ] in 2012<ref>{{cite web|date=26 December 2012|title=Vettel named European Sportsperson of the Year|url=http://www.dw.de/vettel-named-european-sportsperson-of-the-year/a-16480105|access-date=12 January 2013|website=DW.com|archive-date=11 January 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130111193003/http://www.dw.de/vettel-named-european-sportsperson-of-the-year/a-16480105|url-status=live}}</ref> and 2013.<ref>{{cite web|last=Jakobsche|first=Jerzy|date=31 December 2013|title=Sebastian Vettel tops PAP Best Athlete Poll for second year in a row|url=https://www.aipsmedia.com/index.html?page=artdetail&oldart=12662|access-date=12 August 2020|website=AIPS Media|archive-date=29 November 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211129094158/https://www.aipsmedia.com/index.html?page=artdetail&oldart=12662|url-status=live}}</ref> Furthermore, Vettel was named the ] in 2013. He was named ] at the 2014 ].<ref>{{cite news|title=Laureus World Sports Awards 2014|work=Laureus|url=http://www.laureus.com/awards2014/|access-date=12 August 2020|archive-date=8 April 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150408204613/http://www.laureus.com/awards2014/|url-status=live}}</ref> In 2015, he received the Confartigianato Motori Award for Driver of the Year.<ref>{{Cite web|date=4 September 2015|title=A Sebastian Vettel il Premio Confartigianato Motori 2015|trans-title=Sebastian Vettel receives the 2015 Confartigianato Motori Award|url=https://www.confartigianato.it/2015/09/a-sebastian-vettel-il-premio-confartigianato-motori-2015/|access-date=11 January 2021|website=Confartigianato|language=it|archive-date=21 October 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211021151415/https://www.confartigianato.it/2015/09/a-sebastian-vettel-il-premio-confartigianato-motori-2015/|url-status=live}}</ref> After retiring from Formula One in 2022, Vettel received the ''Autosport'' Gregor Grant Award for his "achievement in motorsport".<ref>{{Cite web |last=Turner |first=Kevin |date=5 December 2022 |title=Sebastian Vettel presented with Gregor Grant Award |url=https://www.motorsport.com/autosport-awards/news/sebastian-vettel-presented-with-gregor-grant-award/10407887/ |access-date=7 December 2022 |website=Motorsport |archive-date=6 December 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221206115024/https://www.motorsport.com/autosport-awards/news/sebastian-vettel-presented-with-gregor-grant-award/10407887/ |url-status=live }}</ref>


Red Bull Racing sponsor ] released a Sebastian Vettel edition of the ] ] for 2012. It featured increased engine power, revised bodywork and lower suspension than the standard model.<ref name="infiniti_evo">{{cite web|last=Metcalfe|first=Harry|date=28 January 2013|title=2012 Infiniti FX Vettel review|url=http://www.evo.co.uk/carreviews/evocarreviews/287842/2012_infiniti_fx_vettel_review.html|access-date=13 February 2014|work=Evo|archive-date=24 September 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150924004623/http://www.evo.co.uk/carreviews/evocarreviews/287842/2012_infiniti_fx_vettel_review.html|url-status=live}}</ref>
Ferrari suffered another difficult weekend in ], with Vettel only finishing 4th, as Mercedes gained another 1-2.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/48240781|title=Spanish GP: Hamilton beats Bottas in Spain|website=BBC Sport|date=12 May 2019</ref>


==Race of Champions== ==Race of Champions==
]|alt=]]
Vettel competed in the ] ] at ], representing the German team alongside ].<ref>{{cite news| title =Vettel to represent Germany at RoC| publisher =planet-f1.com| url =http://www.planet-f1.com/story/0,18954,3213_2826546,00.html| date =26 October 2007| accessdate =26 October 2007| deadurl =yes| archiveurl =https://web.archive.org/web/20071027101425/http://www.planet-f1.com/story/0,18954,3213_2826546,00.html| archivedate =27 October 2007| df =dmy-all}}</ref> Vettel and Schumacher won the Nations' Cup Title, after exciting finals. Vettel had to beat two RoC champions, ] and ], after Schumacher stalled his car. Vettel lost the individual competition however, in first heat, in his second battle against Kovalainen.
Vettel competed in the ] at ], representing the German team alongside Michael Schumacher,<ref>{{cite news|date=26 October 2007|title=Vettel to represent Germany at RoC|work=Planet F1|url=http://www.planet-f1.com/story/0,18954,3213_2826546,00.html|access-date=26 October 2007|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071027101425/http://www.planet-f1.com/story/0,18954,3213_2826546,00.html|archive-date=27 October 2007}}</ref> winning the Nations' Cup title. He also teamed up with Schumacher from ] to ], winning the Cup on every occasion.<ref name=VettelROC>{{cite web|title=Sebastian Vettel|url=https://www.raceofchampions.com/drivers/sebastian-vettel/|publisher=Race of Champions|access-date=14 November 2020|archive-date=2 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201102160632/https://www.raceofchampions.com/drivers/sebastian-vettel/|url-status=live}}</ref>
]|alt=]]


Vettel returned to the ], representing Germany together with ].<ref>{{cite news|date=18 July 2015|title=Le Mans winner and F1 star Nico Hülkenberg to race at ROC 2015 in London|work=Race of Champions|url=https://www.raceofchampions.com/news/latest-news/news-2015/le-mans-winner-and-f1-star-nico-huelkenberg-to-race-at-roc-2015-in-london/|access-date=19 September 2015|archive-date=28 September 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200928212722/https://www.raceofchampions.com/news/latest-news/news-2015/le-mans-winner-and-f1-star-nico-huelkenberg-to-race-at-roc-2015-in-london/|url-status=live}}</ref> He won his first individual Race of Champions title that year, beating ] in the final.<ref>{{cite web|last=Khorounzhiy|first=Valentin|title=Vettel defeats Kristensen to win 2015 Race of Champions|url=https://www.motorsport.com/general/news/vettel-defeats-kristensen-to-win-2015-race-of-champions/658923/|publisher=Motorsport.com|date=21 November 2015|access-date=14 November 2020|archive-date=6 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200806194035/https://www.motorsport.com/general/news/vettel-defeats-kristensen-to-win-2015-race-of-champions/658923/|url-status=live}}</ref> Vettel and Hülkenberg finished runner-up in the Nations Cup.<ref name=VettelROC/> In ], Vettel was eliminated in the first heat for the individual competition,<ref>{{cite web|last=Khorounzhiy|first=Valentin|title=Juan Pablo Montoya wins 2017 Race of Champions in Miami|url=https://www.autosport.com/other/news/127836/montoya-wins-race-of-champions|work=Autosport|date=21 January 2017|access-date=14 November 2020|archive-date=26 September 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200926050817/https://www.autosport.com/other/news/127836/montoya-wins-race-of-champions|url-status=live}}</ref> but went on to win the Nations' Cup for Germany by himself with his seventh victory,<ref>{{cite web|last=Weaver|first=Matt|title=Sebastian Vettel, Germany win seventh Race of Champions Nation's Cup|url=https://www.autoweek.com/racing/a1813131/sebastian-vettel-germany-win-seventh-race-champions-nations-cup/|work=Autoweek|date=22 January 2017|access-date=14 November 2020|archive-date=3 July 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200703170752/https://www.autoweek.com/racing/a1813131/sebastian-vettel-germany-win-seventh-race-champions-nations-cup/|url-status=live}}</ref> after his teammate ] was injured earlier in a crash.<ref>{{cite magazine|title=Vettel Wins Nations Cup for Germany|url=https://www.si.com/racing/2017/01/22/ap-car-race-champions|magazine=Sports Illustrated|agency=Associated Press|date=22 January 2017|access-date=14 November 2020|archive-date=26 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201126052908/https://www.si.com/racing/2017/01/22/ap-car-race-champions|url-status=live}}</ref>
Vettel also competed in the ], alongside Michael Schumacher. Once again they won the Nations' Cup Title after a close final against ]. In the Drivers' Cup, Vettel beat ] in Round One, but lost to ] in the quarter-finals. Again Vettel teamed up with Michael Schumacher for the ], which they went on to win in a run-off against the Great Britain team of ] and ]. In the ], on home ground in ], Vettel again teamed up with Schumacher to win the fourth consecutive Nations Cup.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.autoweek.com/article/20101127/MOTORSPORTS/101129928|work=]|publisher=]|date=27 November 2010|accessdate=30 November 2010|title=Schumacher, Vettel win Nations Cup|deadurl=yes|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20101130063145/http://www.autoweek.com/article/20101127/MOTORSPORTS/101129928|archivedate=30 November 2010}}</ref> In the Drivers' Cup, Vettel was eliminated in the semi-finals by ], who went on to win the event.


In the ], Vettel teamed up with ], where they finished runners-up in the Nations' Cup to the Nordic team of Kristensen and ].<ref>{{cite web|last=Cobb|first=Haydn|title=Vettel, Schumacher lose Race of Nations Cup final to Team Nordic|url=https://www.crash.net/other/news/912116/1/vettel-schumacher-lose-race-nations-cup-final|publisher=Crash|date=20 January 2019|access-date=14 November 2020|archive-date=29 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201129075037/https://www.crash.net/other/news/912116/1/vettel-schumacher-lose-race-nations-cup-final|url-status=live}}</ref> Vettel was eliminated in the group stages of the individual competition,<ref>{{cite web|title=Vettel beaten by Schumacher as Guerra wins Race of Champions|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.vettel-beaten-by-schumacher-as-guerra-wins-race-of-champions.6ANI7qMJgL1MrvZC9tHE6s.html|publisher=Formula1.com|date=21 January 2019|access-date=14 November 2020|archive-date=4 December 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201204025651/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.vettel-beaten-by-schumacher-as-guerra-wins-race-of-champions.6ANI7qMJgL1MrvZC9tHE6s.html|url-status=live}}</ref> although he won the ROC Skills Challenge.<ref>{{cite web|last=Chokhani|first=Darshan|title=Guerra Beats Duval to Win 2019 Roc in Mexico, Vettel Takes Skills Trophy|url=https://drivetribe.com/p/guerra-beats-duval-to-win-2019-YVLEERg2QhyvcVfM1Pbl2w?iid=L7H1W8wcQHORzM130GzeZw|publisher=DriveTribe|date=January 2019|access-date=14 November 2020}}{{Dead link|date=February 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref> He reached the individual final in ] but was beaten by ].<ref>{{Cite web|last=Ebner|first=Tobias|date=6 February 2022|title=Race of Champions 2022: Sebastien Loeb schlägt Sebastian Vettel im Finale|url=https://de.motorsport.com/allgemeines/news/race-of-champions-2022-sebastien-loeb-schlaegt-sebastian-vettel-im-finale-22020603/7932527/|access-date=6 February 2022|website=Motorsport.com|language=de|archive-date=6 February 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220206140754/https://de.motorsport.com/allgemeines/news/race-of-champions-2022-sebastien-loeb-schlaegt-sebastian-vettel-im-finale-22020603/7932527/|url-status=live}}</ref>
In ], Vettel and Schumacher completed their fifth consecutive Nations Cup win, beating the Nordic team of ] and ] 2–0 in the final. In the semi-finals, Vettel had to beat both ] and ], after Schumacher lost to Button. ], Vettel and Schumacher won their sixth Nations Cup title by defeating the French team of ] and ] 2–0 in the final. Vettel returned to the ROC in 2015, teaming up with fellow F1 driver ] to represent Germany in the Nations' Cup.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.raceofchampions.com/News/general-news/le-mans-winner-and-f1-star-nico-h%C3%BClkenberg-to-race-at-roc-2015-in-london.aspx|work=]|date=18 August 2015|accessdate=19 September 2015|title=Le Mans winner and F1 star Nico Hülkenberg to race at ROC 2015 in London}}</ref> In ], Vettel won his very first Race of Champions beating Kristensen in the final. En route to the final of the Nations Cup, Vettel was able to gain some form of revenge over his former teammate Daniel Ricciardo, defeating him at the quarter final stage as Germany knocked out Australia. In 2017, Vettel was knocked out in the first heat for the Race of Champions, but went on to win the Nations Cup for Germany by himself with an unprecedented 7 consecutive victories, after his teammate ] was injured earlier in a crash.


==Other ventures==
In the ] event in Mexico, Vettel teamed up with ], where they reached the final of the Nations Cup, but finished runners-up to the Nordic team of Kristensen and ]. Vettel was eliminated in the group stages of the individual competition, meaning for the first time (in his 9th appearance), he finished the event without winning a title, although he managed to win the ROC Skills Challenge.


==Helmet design== ===Activism===
Vettel has demonstrated an interest in the environment and other social justice issues. Following the ], he helped remove litter from the stands,<ref>{{Cite web|last=Barretto|first=Lawrence|date=19 July 2021|title=Vettel sticks around after DNF in British Grand Prix to help collect litter at Silverstone|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.vettel-sticks-around-after-dnf-in-british-grand-prix-to-help-collect-litter.1BLr8DLXOT1unaNLEybopi.html|access-date=28 January 2022|publisher=Formula 1|archive-date=28 January 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220128214123/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.vettel-sticks-around-after-dnf-in-british-grand-prix-to-help-collect-litter.1BLr8DLXOT1unaNLEybopi.html|url-status=live}}</ref> and he also worked with children in Austria to build a ].<ref>{{Cite web|date=2 July 2021|title=How Vettel created a buzz by constructing 'hotel for bees' close to the Red Bull Ring|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.how-vettel-created-a-buzz-by-constructing-hotel-for-bees-close-to-the-red.3veH0FG5kRX8bTh13BTtSe.html|access-date=28 January 2022|publisher=Formula 1|archive-date=28 January 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220128214123/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.how-vettel-created-a-buzz-by-constructing-hotel-for-bees-close-to-the-red.3veH0FG5kRX8bTh13BTtSe.html|url-status=live}}</ref> A second bee hotel would be erected at the ] ahead of the ].<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.how-sebastian-vettel-made-turn-2-at-suzuka-a-hive-of-activity-with-his.1P0SNRVKbk0FynwirqXWLa.html |title=How Sebastian Vettel made Turn 2 at Suzuka a hive of activity with his 'Buzzin' Corner' project |date=21 September 2023 |access-date=23 September 2023 |publisher=Formula One |archive-date=30 September 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230930003339/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.how-sebastian-vettel-made-turn-2-at-suzuka-a-hive-of-activity-with-his.1P0SNRVKbk0FynwirqXWLa.html |url-status=live }}</ref> Furthermore, Vettel has been critical of how F1 races are scheduled, stating that races that are geographically proximate to each other should be held on consecutive weekends to reduce emissions from travelling.<ref>{{Cite web|last1=Chiu|first1=Nigel|last2=Rencken|first2=Dieter|date=18 October 2021|title=Vettel criticises 'immense' F1 calendar: We mustn't neglect people|url=https://racingnews365.com/vettel-criticises-immense-f1-calendar-we-mustnt-neglect-people|access-date=28 January 2022|website=RacingNews365.com|archive-date=28 January 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220128214123/https://racingnews365.com/vettel-criticises-immense-f1-calendar-we-mustnt-neglect-people|url-status=live}}</ref> He also held an all-women karting event during the weekend of the ],<ref>{{Cite web|last=Saunders|first=Nate|date=2 December 2021|title=Sebastian Vettel organised women-only kart race in Saudi Arabia|url=https://www.espn.com/f1/story/_/id/32771470/vettel-organised-women-only-kart-race-saudi-arabia|access-date=28 January 2022|publisher=ESPN|archive-date=25 February 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220225002943/https://www.espn.com/f1/story/_/id/32771470/vettel-organised-women-only-kart-race-saudi-arabia|url-status=live}}</ref> and wore the ] at the ] despite being reprimanded.<ref>{{Cite news|last=Takle|first=Abhishek|date=1 August 2021|title=Vettel and three others reprimanded for not removing LGBTQ+ rights t-shirts before anthem|publisher=Reuters|url=https://www.reuters.com/lifestyle/sports/vettel-three-others-reprimanded-not-removing-lgbtq-rights-t-shirts-before-anthem-2021-08-01/|access-date=28 January 2022|archive-date=21 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211221112417/https://www.reuters.com/lifestyle/sports/vettel-three-others-reprimanded-not-removing-lgbtq-rights-t-shirts-before-anthem-2021-08-01/|url-status=live}}</ref> Following the ], Vettel expressed an intent to boycott the September's ] had the race gone ahead as planned.<ref>{{cite web |author-first=Luke |author-last=Smith |url=https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/vettel-i-wont-race-in-the-russian-gp-after-ukraine-invasion/8458166/ |title=Vettel: I won't race in the Russian F1 GP after Ukraine invasion |date=24 February 2022 |access-date=24 February 2022 |archive-date=24 February 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220224164404/https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/vettel-i-wont-race-in-the-russian-gp-after-ukraine-invasion/8458166/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
Vettel's passion for different helmet designs started at a young age. From his early days in karting, he has worked with helmet designer Jens Munser. At age eight, Vettel wanted ] from '']'' on his helmet.<ref name="jmd">{{cite web|url=http://www.redbull.com/en/motorsports/f1/stories/1331579592071/-racing-isn-t-just-a-sport-it-s-a-show- |title=Racing isn't just a sport, it's a show |publisher=Red Bull |date=9 December 2012 |accessdate=9 December 2012}}</ref> Vettel's original helmet, in Formula One, like most Red Bull-backed drivers, was heavily influenced by the energy drink company logo. New to Vettel's helmet since the start of 2008 has been the incorporation of the red cross shape of the ] ] on the front, just underneath the visor, in honour of the region of his birthplace, Heppenheim.


In May 2022, Vettel appeared on the ] political topical debate programme '']'' to discuss a variety of issues including ], ], and ].<ref>{{cite web|last=Mitchell|first=Scott|title=Vettel's starring role on BBC debate show was worth the risk|url=https://the-race.com/formula-1/vettels-starring-role-on-bbc-debate-show-was-worth-the-risk/|work=The Race|date=13 May 2022|access-date=13 May 2022|archive-date=13 May 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220513112130/https://the-race.com/formula-1/vettels-starring-role-on-bbc-debate-show-was-worth-the-risk/|url-status=live}}</ref> The following month, Vettel appeared on the cover of '']'', voicing support for an ] driver competing in Formula One.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Styles |first=Darren |date=8 June 2022 |title=Sebastian Vettel: Formula One is ready for an out gay driver |url=http://attitude.co.uk/article/sebastian-vettel-formula-one-is-ready-for-an-out-gay-driver-1/27199/ |access-date=23 June 2022 |website=Attitude |archive-date=24 June 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220624215402/https://attitude.co.uk/article/sebastian-vettel-formula-one-is-ready-for-an-out-gay-driver-1/27199/ |url-status=live }}</ref> In June 2022, while participating in the ], Vettel denounced Canada's mining of the ] by wearing a T-shirt and helmet patch calling it "Canada's climate crime". ] Premier ] called it "over-the-top hypocrisy" because Vettel's team, Aston Martin, is sponsored by petroleum company ], which he said has "one of the worst climate-emissions records in the world".<ref>{{cite news | date = 23 June 2022 | title = 'Over the top hypocrisy' of F1 oilsands protest helps Alberta's case, Kenney argues | url = https://edmonton.ctvnews.ca/over-the-top-hypocrisy-of-f1-oilsands-protest-helps-alberta-s-case-kenney-argues-1.5960400 | work = CTV News | access-date = 24 July 2022 | archive-date = 3 July 2022 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20220703205615/https://edmonton.ctvnews.ca/over-the-top-hypocrisy-of-f1-oilsands-protest-helps-alberta-s-case-kenney-argues-1.5960400 | url-status = live }}</ref> Vettel agreed with the "hypocritical" label but said those personal attacks risk missing what he called the "bigger picture" of the ].<ref>{{cite web|last1=Southwell|first1=Hazel|last2=Wood|first2=Will|date=19 June 2022|url=https://www.racefans.net/2022/06/19/yes-i-am-a-hypocrite-admits-vettel-after-politicians-broadside-over-oil-sands-helmet/|title='Yes I am a hypocrite' admits Vettel after politician's broadside over oil sands helmet|website=RaceFans|access-date=24 July 2022|archive-date=24 July 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220724112136/https://www.racefans.net/2022/06/19/yes-i-am-a-hypocrite-admits-vettel-after-politicians-broadside-over-oil-sands-helmet/|url-status=live}}</ref>
After switching to Red Bull in 2009, Vettel started regularly using a variety of new helmet designs. Some designs were small changes to his original Red Bull design, while others are completely original designs, such as the one he used at the 2010 Japanese Grand Prix: Vettel had a special white-red helmet design, with black ] and hiragana for "gives you wings". Several of his helmet designs also featured his team members.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.f1fanatic.co.uk/2013/01/15/helmets-sebastian-vettel/ |title=The many helmets of Sebastian Vettel |publisher=F1Fanatic|date=15 January 2013 |accessdate=15 January 2013}}</ref> At the ], Vettel celebrated his 50th helmet design with a 'rusty' matte look and 50 tallies, indicating his 50 helmet designs in Formula One.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://sebastianvettel.de/index.php/en/helmdesign-fans-en/532-helmet-italy-2012 |title=Helmet Italy 2012 |publisher=Sebastianvettel.de |date=7 September 2012 |accessdate=27 November 2012 |deadurl=yes |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20121028075757/http://www.sebastianvettel.de/index.php/en/helmdesign-fans-en/532-helmet-italy-2012 |archivedate=28 October 2012 }}</ref> By the end of the {{F1|2013}} season, Vettel had used 76 different helmets throughout his career. ''"I have a quirk"'' he admits.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.auto-motor-und-sport.de/formel-1/helme-von-sebastian-vettel-kopfschutz-76-mal-anders-7982270.html |title=Formel 1-Kopfschutz 76 Mal anders |publisher=Auto und Motorsport |date=14 January 2014 |accessdate=14 January 2014}}</ref>


===SailGP===
Vettel started his {{F1|2013}} campaign with a new design in honour of ], for his world record ] space jump in October 2012.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.carsguide.com.au/news-and-reviews/motorsports/vettel_relies_on_felix_and_heidi|title=Vettel relies on Felix and Heidi|first=Paul|last=Gover|work=Carsguide|publisher=]|date=15 March 2013|accessdate=15 March 2013}}</ref>
On 31 May 2023, Vettel announced his involvement with the Germany ] Team, as co-owner of the team alongside ].<ref>{{Cite web |date=31 May 2023 |title=Leading German sports stars Sebastian Vettel and Erik Heil announce first Germany SailGP Team |url=https://sailgp.com/news/23/sebastian-vettel-erik-heil-announce-germany-sailgp-team/ |access-date=31 May 2023 |publisher=SailGP |archive-date=31 May 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230531134014/https://sailgp.com/news/23/sebastian-vettel-erik-heil-announce-germany-sailgp-team/ |url-status=live }}</ref>


==Personal life==
Helmet manufacturer Arai have stated Vettel 'retires' a helmet design after each win, although he does not need to win in order to sport a new design.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.redbull.com/en/motorsports/f1/stories/1331579592309/behind-the-scenes-at-jmdi|title=Behind the scenes at JMDi|first=Tom|last=Bellingham|publisher=]|date=9 December 2012|accessdate=17 November 2013}}</ref>
]
Vettel lives in ], Switzerland, amongst other racing drivers. Vettel has described himself as competitive, private and impatient. He also appeared in advertisements for ],<ref>{{Cite web|date=12 March 2012|title=No personal sponsors for champion Vettel|url=https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/no-personal-sponsors-for-champion-vettel/417780/|access-date=14 November 2020|publisher=Motorsport.com|archive-date=20 November 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221120190615/https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/no-personal-sponsors-for-champion-vettel/417780/|url-status=dead}}</ref> and provided the voice of character Sebastian Schnell in the German dub of the 2011 film '']'',<ref>{{Cite web|last=Reiners|first=Andreas|date=23 May 2017|title="Cars 3: Evolution": Sebastian Vettel wird Kinostar|trans-title="Cars 3: Evolution": Sebastian Vettel becomes a cinema star|url=https://www.speedweek.com/formel1/news/110211/Cars-3-Evolution-Sebastian-Vettel-wird-Kinostar.html|access-date=14 November 2020|publisher=Speedweek|language=de|archive-date=20 November 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221120185122/https://www.speedweek.com/formel1/news/110211/Cars-3-Evolution-Sebastian-Vettel-wird-Kinostar.html|url-status=live}}</ref> and a voice command assistant in the German and Italian dubs of the 2017 film '']''.<ref>{{Cite web |date=23 December 2021 |title=From Lewis Hamilton to Michael Schumacher: WATCH F1 Drivers' Secret Guest Appearance in the Cars Movie Franchise |url=https://www.essentiallysports.com/f1-news-from-lewis-hamilton-to-michael-schumacher-watch-f1-drivers-secret-guest-appearance-in-the-cars-movie-franchise/ |access-date=28 December 2022 |website=EssentiallySports |archive-date=28 December 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221228164302/https://www.essentiallysports.com/f1-news-from-lewis-hamilton-to-michael-schumacher-watch-f1-drivers-secret-guest-appearance-in-the-cars-movie-franchise/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Vettel is a fan of ] team ].<ref>{{cite news |last=Dionisius |first=Alexander |date=12 February 2014 |title=Vettel: 'Fell for Eintracht Frankfurt' |url=http://www.bundesliga.com/en/news/Bundesliga/0000285705.jsp |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180529054228/https://www.bundesliga.com/en/news/Bundesliga/0000285705.jsp |archive-date=29 May 2018 |access-date=10 July 2017 |work=Bundesliga}}</ref>


Vettel married childhood friend Hanna Prater at a private ceremony in early 2019;<ref>{{Cite web|last1=Edmondson|first1=Laurence|last2=Saunders|first2=Nate|date=20 June 2019|title=French Grand Prix diary – Vettel shows off wedding ring while Hamilton skips media day|url=https://www.espn.com/f1/story/_/id/27015385|access-date=21 June 2019|website=ESPN|archive-date=21 June 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190621084857/https://www.espn.com/f1/story/_/id/27015385|url-status=live}}</ref> they have three children.<ref>{{cite news|date=10 December 2013|title=Sebastian Vettel wird zum ersten Mal Vater|language=de|trans-title=Sebastian Vettel will be a first time father|work=Die Welt|url=https://www.welt.de/sport/formel1/article122767788/Sebastian-Vettel-wird-zum-ersten-Mal-Vater.html|access-date=10 December 2013|archive-date=10 December 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131210234309/http://www.welt.de/sport/formel1/article122767788/Sebastian-Vettel-wird-zum-ersten-Mal-Vater.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|date=1 March 2014|title=Exclusive Sebastian Vettel Q&A: Right now, nothing is lost|work=Formula 1|url=http://www.formula1.com/news/interviews/2014/3/15516.html|access-date=11 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140301222219/http://www.formula1.com/news/interviews/2014/3/15516.html|archive-date=1 March 2014}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.essentiallysports.com/sebastian-vettel-and-hanna-prater-blessed-with-a-baby-boy/|title=After Two Daughters, Sebastian Vettel Blessed With a Baby Boy|last=George|first=Dhruv|date=28 November 2019|website=Essentially Sports|access-date=28 November 2019|archive-date=10 November 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221110213235/https://www.essentiallysports.com/sebastian-vettel-and-hanna-prater-blessed-with-a-baby-boy/|url-status=live}}</ref> In 2016, '']'' estimated that his annual income was $41&nbsp;million.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Sebastian Vettel|url=https://www.forbes.com/pictures/em45hkff/19-sebastian-vettel/|access-date=11 August 2020|website=Forbes|archive-date=20 November 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221120185112/https://www.forbes.com/pictures/em45hkff/19-sebastian-vettel/|url-status=live}}</ref> ], his teammate from 2015 to 2018, is a close friend.<ref>{{cite web|date=16 April 2012|title=Kimi hurmasi Vettelin – yksi piirre ylitse muiden|trans-title=Kimi charmed Vettel – one of his personality traits stands out above the others<!--translated by Google Translate and bab.la https://fi.bab.la/sanakirja/suomi-englanti/ylitse-muiden.-->|url=https://www.iltalehti.fi/formulat/a/2012041615456409|access-date=28 November 2017|website=Iltalehti|language=fi|archive-date=30 June 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170630140246/http://www.iltalehti.fi/formulat/2012041615456409_fo.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref> Besides his native German, Vettel speaks English, French, and Italian.<ref>{{cite news|last=Rinchon|first=Thibaut|date=1 December 2019|title=Vettel en français : "Quelle année difficile, content que ça se termine !"|trans-title=Vettel in French: "What a difficult year, glad it's over!"|url=https://www.rtbf.be/sport/moteurs/f1/detail_vettel-quelle-annee-difficile-content-que-ca-se-termine?id=10378512|access-date=28 April 2020|website=RTBF|language=fr|archive-date=22 September 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200922095432/https://www.rtbf.be/sport/moteurs/f1/detail_vettel-quelle-annee-difficile-content-que-ca-se-termine?id=10378512|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web| date=30 May 2021| title=Sebastian Vettel Speaking 5 Languages (Turn On Captions)| url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ewEE5e0tiJ4 |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211219/ewEE5e0tiJ4 |archive-date=19 December 2021 |url-status=live| access-date=13 August 2021| website=YouTube }}{{cbignore}}</ref> In July 2022, he created his ] account,<ref>{{Cite web |title=Sebastian Vettel (@sebastianvettel) • Instagram photos and videos |url=https://www.instagram.com/sebastianvettel/ |access-date=28 July 2022 |website=Instagram |archive-date=27 July 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220727225942/https://www.instagram.com/sebastianvettel/ |url-status=live }}</ref> having long eschewed ].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Barretto |first=Lawrence |date=2 August 2020 |title=Long Read: The lesser known Sebastian Vettel – getting to know the man who snubs social media |url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.long-read-the-lesser-known-sebastian-vettel-getting-to-know-the-man-who.7hJVw4R5jL8KGUWkJXKCdi.html |access-date=28 July 2022 |publisher=Formula 1 |archive-date=13 December 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221213153308/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.long-read-the-lesser-known-sebastian-vettel-getting-to-know-the-man-who.7hJVw4R5jL8KGUWkJXKCdi.html |url-status=live }}</ref> Vettel's first Instagram post was to announce his retirement from Formula One at the end of the 2022 season.<ref>{{Cite Instagram|postid=CgjUE5xKW-B|user=sebastianvettel|title=#THEREISSTILLARACETOWIN|date=28 July 2022|author=Sebastian Vettel}}</ref>
After moving to the Ferrari team, prior to the start of the {{F1|2015}} season Vettel said that he will no longer change helmet designs so often and after choosing a new design, having had a Red Bull design since he was 12, will try to stick to one design for the year, which was also enforced by a FIA rule banning 'significant' helmet changes in-season.<ref>{{cite AV media|last=Vettel|first=Sebastian|date=31 January 2015|title=#askSeb: Sebastian's answers to the fans|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j7A8l4Gvmr8|access-date=4 February 2015|publisher=]}}</ref> His new helmet design is white with the German national flag running from front to back from the middle to the viewer's left hand side and his permanent Formula One start number 5 on the top.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.sebastianvettel.de/index.php/galerien/helme-helmets/helme-helmets-2015/27-02-2015-helm-helmet-scuderia-ferrari|title=Vettel's Helmet|publisher=Sebastian Vettel|date=27 February 2015|accessdate=30 March 2015|deadurl=yes|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20150402164001/http://www.sebastianvettel.de/index.php/galerien/helme-helmets/helme-helmets-2015/27-02-2015-helm-helmet-scuderia-ferrari|archivedate=2 April 2015}}</ref>


==Karting record==
For the ] he changed the German flag stripe on his helmet to an Italian flag stripe in celebration of Ferrari's home race.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.f1i.com/news/278406-vettels-helmet-gets-italian-job-monza.html|title=Vettel's helmet gets an 'Italian job' for Monza|last=Delaney|first=Michael|work=F1i.com|publisher=Digital Motorsport Media|date=1 September 2017|accessdate=24 August 2018}}</ref>


=== Karting career summary ===
Following the death of ], Vettel wore a special helmet based on Lauda's final Ferrari helmet at the ].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://f1i.com/images/341837-vettel-goes-full-niki-with-special-tribute-lid.html|title=F1i Pic of the Day: Vettel goes full 'Niki' with special tribute lid|last=Osten|first=Phillip van|date=2019-05-23|website=F1i.com|language=en|access-date=2019-05-23}}</ref>
{| class="wikitable" style="font-size: 85%; text-align:center"

!Season
==Car names==
!Series
Inspired by American bomber pilots in ], Vettel has made it a tradition to name his cars.<ref name=":0"/> Vettel invites his team members to dinner when they arrive for the first race of the season and shares what the new car will be named.<ref name="suzie">{{cite news|url=http://www.bild.de/sport/motorsport/sebastian-vettel/nennt-seinen-neuen-renner-suzie-35029294.bild.html|title=Vettels Neue heißt "Suzie"|publisher=Bild|date=12 March 2014|accessdate=12 March 2014}}</ref> He said: "It's important to have a close relationship with a car. Like a ship, a car should be named after a girl as it's sexy". The car he drove for his first full season in {{F1|2008}}, the ], was named Julie,<ref name=":0">{{cite news|url=http://www.jamesallenonf1.com/2010/05/what-should-vettel-name-his-new-car/|title=What should Vettel name his car?|publisher=]|date=23 May 2010|accessdate=11 March 2014}}</ref> followed by Kate and Kate's Dirty Sister (]), Luscious Liz and Randy Mandy (]), Kinky Kylie (]),<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.crash.net/f1/news/157557/1/sebastian_vettel_luscious_lizand_police_called_michael_schumacher.html|title=Sebastian Vettel, Luscious Liz...and police called Michael Schumacher|publisher=crash.net|date=9 March 2010|accessdate=11 August 2010}}</ref> Abbey (])<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/motorsport/formulaone/sebastian-vettel/9142718/Sebastian-Vettel-names-2012-Red-Bull-car-Abbey-as-he-looks-to-defend-Formula-One-world-title.html|title=Sebastian Vettel names 2012 Red Bull car Abbey as he looks to defend Formula One world title|date=14 March 2012|accessdate=19 March 2012|work=The Daily Telegraph|location=London}}</ref> and Hungry Heidi (]).<ref>{{cite news|url=http://uk.reuters.com/article/2013/03/14/uk-motor-racing-vettel-car-idUKBRE92D0J520130314|title=Vettel puts his faith in "Hungry Heidi"|date=14 March 2013|accessdate=14 March 2013|work=]|publisher=]|first=Alan|last=Baldwin}}</ref> Vettel's car for {{F1|2014}}, the ], was baptised Suzie.<ref name="suzie"/> Vettel continued this tradition with Ferrari and christened his 2015 ] Eva.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://en.espnf1.com/ferrari/motorsport/story/194247.html |title=Vettel names first Ferrari 'Eva' |publisher=ESPN F1 |date=13 March 2015 |accessdate=13 March 2015}}</ref> For the 2016 season Vettel and his mechanics decided to name his ] Margherita.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.skysports.com/f1/news/24182/10207884/sebastian-vettel-starts-2016-with-a-margherita-for-his-new-ferrari-car.html |title=Sebastian Vettel starts 2016 with a Margherita for his new Ferrari car |publisher=Skysports F1 |date=17 March 2016 |accessdate=17 March 2016}}</ref> For 2017, Vettel decided to christen his ] Gina.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.bild.de/sport/motorsport/sebastian-vettel/tauft-seinen-ferrari-gina-50941842.bild.html#fromWall|title=Vettel fährt mit Gina|publisher=Bild Sport|date=21 March 2017|accessdate=21 March 2017}}</ref> For the 2018 season, Vettel decided to name his ] Loria.<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.espn.com/f1/story/_/id/22879149/vettel-names-2018-ferrari-f1-car-loria|title=Vettel names 2018 F1 car 'Loria'.|work=ESPN.com|access-date=23 March 2018}}</ref> For 2019, Vettel decided to name his ] Lina.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.instagram.com/p/Bu8OeLpA5I1/?utm_source=ig_share_sheet&igshid=1j4o2e48reswn|title=Vettel names his 2019 car "Lina"}}</ref>
!Team

!Position
==Comparison to Michael Schumacher==
|-
Vettel's unexpected win at the ] led the media to dub him the "Baby Schumi", "New Schumacher". He was not just dubbed this for his nationality, but also because of his driving style, his concentration and the hands-on role he plays behind the scenes with his team of engineers. Vettel played down the comparison stating he wanted to be the "New Vettel".<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/motorsport/formulaone/2964390/Sebastian-Vettel-joins-Formula-Ones-young-fast-set-with-Monza-victory-F1.html|first=Simon|last=Arron|work=The Daily Telegraph |date=15 September 2008|accessdate=11 August 2010|title=Sebastian Vettel joins Formula One's young fast set with Monza victory|location=London}}</ref>
! rowspan="4" |1997

| align="left" |DMV Goldpokal — Bambini B
] both racing at the ], where Vettel won his second World Championship title]]
| rowspan="4" align="left" |KSN
Nevertheless, the similarities are marked. Like Schumacher, Vettel grew up in a small town with an everyday background—Schumacher's father a bricklayer and Vettel's a carpenter. Both had their first taste of racing at the Kerpen karting track near Cologne, not far from the Nürburgring. Vettel began driving in his garden lapping the garden many times, not even stopping to eat or shower, before he could legally take to the roads, and said his passion for cars was nurtured by watching Schumacher compete.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/driving/features/article6779690.ece|title=My life in cars: Sebastian Vettel|work=The Sunday Times |publisher=]|date=9 August 2009|accessdate=19 July 2010|first=Will|last=Gray|location=London}}</ref>
|7th

|-
After winning his first championship in {{F1|2010}}, and being hailed as the 'Next Schumacher', Vettel has stated he did not want to aim for Schumacher's record after learning how hard it was to get one championship under his belt, though he would like to win more.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://blogs.bettor.com/Sebastian-Vettel-refuses-to-compare-himself-to-Michael-Schumacher-a43079|title=Sebastian Vettel refuses to compare himself to Michael Schumacher|first=Donald|last=Harley|date=23 November 2010|accessdate=23 November 2010|work=Bettor|publisher=Ibetx.|deadurl=yes|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20101126151615/http://blogs.bettor.com/Sebastian-Vettel-refuses-to-compare-himself-to-Michael-Schumacher-a43079|archivedate=26 November 2010}}</ref> Each driver began to dominate the sport in the season after winning the championship. They both clinched their second successive titles before the seasons were finished (unlike their previous year), and in only their fourth full seasons. Both drivers became the youngest ever double world champions at the time, by doing this.
| align="left" |DMV Bundesmeisterschaft — Bambini B

| style="background:#FFFFBF;" |'''1st'''
In 2011, ]'s ] was impressed when Vettel was the only driver to take the time to visit the factory and talk to the tyre manufacturer to gain a better insight and improve their racing. The "only other driver that asks us a lot of questions" is Michael Schumacher. Hembery "found that interesting. It is like seeing the master and the protégé at work."<ref>{{cite news|url=http://plus.autosport.com/premium/feature/3872/how-vettel-got-an-edge-over-his-rivals/ |title=How Vettel got an edge over his rivals|work=Autosport |date=14 September 2011 |accessdate=27 November 2012}}</ref>
|-

| align="left" |DMV Landesmeisterschaft Süd — Bambini B
After Schumacher was ] in a skiing accident in late 2013, Vettel was on hand to collect a German Millennium-Bambi award for his life achievements, on his behalf, along with Schumacher's long-term manager Sabine Kehm a year later.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://ms-fans.com/schumacher-honoured-with-the-millennium-bambi-award-video/|title=Schumi awarded with the Millennium-Bambi Award|publisher=msfans.com|accessdate=29 March 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.bambi-awards.com/bambi-2014-stars-and-heroes-meet-in-berlin/22410|title=Bambi 2014:Stars and Heroes meet in Berlin|publisher=Bambi-Awards.com|accessdate=29 March 2015}}</ref> Vettel also made an emotional speech commemorating Schumacher's achievements in the sport. The two of them had got to know each other well from racing together in Formula One and in the Race of Champions and are – along with ] – the only German Formula One title winners.
| style="background:#FFFFBF;" |'''1st'''

|-
In 2014, Vettel cited Schumacher as one of his inspirations in becoming a ] driver from 2015 saying; ''"When I was a kid, Michael Schumacher in the red car was my greatest idol and now it's an incredible honour to finally get the chance to drive a Ferrari."''<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www1.skysports.com/f1/news/12474/9570867/its-official-fernando-alonso-leaving-ferrari-to-be-replaced-by-sebastian-vettel-in-2015|title=It's Official – Fernando Alonso leaving Ferrari to be replaced by Sebastian Vettel|publisher=]|accessdate=20 November 2014}}</ref> In his second race with Ferrari, Vettel became a race winner for the team. This was at the age of 27, exactly the same age as Schumacher winning his first race with the team. Additionally, both Schumacher and Vettel finished 3rd in the Drivers' Championship in their debut seasons with Ferrari, scoring 3 wins each and they both won their first ever World Championship in car number 5.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.statsf1.com/en/statistiques/numero/champion/nombre.aspx|title=Statistics Number - World Champion titles - Number • STATS F1|website=www.statsf1.com|access-date=29 March 2019}}</ref>
| align="left" |NRW Cup — Bambini B

| style="background:#FFFFBF;" |'''1st'''
==Honours==
|-
Vettel was named Rookie of the Year at the annual ] in 2008. In 2009, Vettel was awarded the ], for achievements in the 2008 season. In the year 2010, he was voted ] (Sportler des Jahres). In the same year, he won the International Racing Driver category at the Autosport Awards for the first time, and has since won this award for three successive years (2010–2013). In January 2012, Vettel was honoured with the illustrious ] for being the "Double consecutive F1 World Champion at the age of twenty four&nbsp;– winner of eleven Grands Prix out of nineteen", and in the following month, he was further honoured with the highest ] in Germany, the '']''&nbsp;– Silver Laurel Leaf&nbsp;– in recognition of his multiple world titles and his exemplary character.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.jamesallenonf1.com/2012/02/vettel-honoured-by-german-nation/|title=Vettel Honoured by German Nation|first=James|last=Allen|authorlink=James Allen (journalist)|date=24 February 2012|accessdate=24 February 2012|work=James Allen on F1|publisher=James Allen}}</ref> He was also voted F1 driver of the year in 2009,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.redbull.com/cs/Satellite/en_INT/Article/F1-team-bosses-hail-Vettel-021242794120324|title=Red Bull Gives You Wings - RedBull.com|work=redbull.com|accessdate=4 November 2016}}</ref> 2011<ref>{{cite news| url=http://plus.autosport.com/free/feature/4122/the-f1-team-principals-top-ten-drivers/ |title=The F1 team principals' top ten drivers |first=Jonathan |last=Noble |work=Autosport |date=21 December 2011 |accessdate=25 May 2014}}</ref> and 2013<ref>{{cite news| url=http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/111829 |title=Formula 1 team bosses vote Sebastian Vettel as best driver for 2013 |first=Jonathan |last=Noble |work=Autosport |date=12 December 2013 |accessdate=25 May 2014}}</ref> by the F1 team principals for the annual secret poll, initiated by Autosport magazine, while being voted runner-up in 2010 and 2012. He additionally won the ] in 2009, 2012 and 2013. He became ] by ] in consecutive years<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.aipsmedia.com/index.php?page=news&cod=12662&tp=n&allcomm=1/|title=Sebastian Vettel tops PAP Best Athlete Poll for second year in a row |accessdate=12 January 2013}}</ref> (2012<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.dw.de/vettel-named-european-sportsperson-of-the-year/a-16480105|title=Vettel named European Sportsperson of the Year |accessdate=12 January 2013}}</ref> and 2013)<ref>{{cite web|url=http://grandprix247.com/2013/12/27/vettel-voted-by-agencies-as-2013-european-sportsman-of-the-year/|title=Vettel voted by agencies as 2013 European sportsman of the year|accessdate=12 January 2013|deadurl=yes|archiveurl=https://archive.is/20140112170439/http://grandprix247.com/2013/12/27/vettel-voted-by-agencies-as-2013-european-sportsman-of-the-year/|archivedate=12 January 2014}}</ref> and also by UEPS in 2010,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.crash.net/f1/news/165776/1/vettel-claims-european-sportsman-of-year-honours.html |title=Vettel takes European Sportsman of Year honours |publisher=crash.net |date=7 January 2011 |accessdate=21 August 2015}}</ref> whilst also being named the ] in 2013. In 2014, he was named Sportsman of the year at the ] held in ], ].<ref>{{cite news|title=Laures Sports Awards Malaysia 2014|url=http://www.laureus.com/awards2014/|accessdate=26 March 2014}}</ref> Red Bull Racing sponsor ] released a Sebastian Vettel edition of the ] ] for 2012. It features increased engine power, revised bodywork and lower suspension than the standard model.<ref name="infiniti_evo">{{cite web | url=http://www.evo.co.uk/carreviews/evocarreviews/287842/2012_infiniti_fx_vettel_review.html | title=2012 Infiniti FX Vettel review | publisher=evo Publications Ltd | work=evo | accessdate=13 February 2014 | author=Metcalfe, Harry}}</ref>
! rowspan="3" |1998
| align="left" |DMV Winterpokal — Cadet and Bambini
| rowspan="3" align="left" |KSN
|4th
|-
| align="left" |NRW Cup — Bambini A
| style="background:#FFFFBF;" |'''1st'''
|-
| align="left" |DMV Landesmeisterschaft Süd — Bambini A
| style="background:#FFFFBF;" |'''1st'''
|-
!1999
| align="left" |Torneo Industrie Open — 100 Junior
| align="left" |
| style="background:#FFDF9F;" |'''3rd'''
|-
! rowspan="4" |2000
| align="left" |Trofeo Andrea Margutti — 100 Junior
| align="left" |
|7th
|-
| align="left" |Green Helmet Trophy — Cadet
| align="left" |
|7th
|-
| align="left" |] — Junior
|
|5th
|-
| align="left" |] — ]
| align="left" |
|22nd
|-
! rowspan="5" |2001
| align="left" |South Garda Winter Cup — ]
| align="left" |
| style="background:#FFDF9F;" |'''3rd'''
|-
| align="left" |Trofeo Andrea Margutti — ]
|align=left| KSN Racing
|22nd
|-
| align="left" |] — ]
|
| style="background:#FFFFBF;" |'''1st'''
|-
| align="left" |] — Junior
| align="left" |
| style="background:#FFFFBF;" |'''1st'''
|-
| align="left" |] — ]
| align="left" |
| style="background:#FFFFBF;" |'''1st'''
|-
! rowspan="2" |2002
| align="left" |] — ]
| rowspan="2" align="left" |KSN Official Racing Team
|6th
|-
| align="left" |] — Senior
|10th
|-
! colspan="4" |{{center|{{small|Source:<ref name=DriverDBOverview>{{cite web|title=Sebastian Vettel|url=https://www.driverdb.com/drivers/sebastian-vettel/|publisher=DriverDB|accessdate=7 June 2021|archive-date=1 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210701000557/https://www.driverdb.com/drivers/sebastian-vettel/|url-status=live}}</ref>}}}}
|}


==Racing record== == Racing record ==


===Career summary=== === Racing career summary ===
{| class="wikitable" style="font-size: 90%; text-align:center" {| class="wikitable" style="font-size: 90%; text-align:center"
|- |-
! Season ! Season
! Series ! Series
! Team ! Team
! Races ! Races
! Wins ! Wins
! Poles ! Poles
! F/Laps ! {{Abbr|F/Laps|Fastest laps}}
! Podiums ! Podiums
! Points ! Points
Line 417: Line 510:
|style="background:#ffffbf;"| '''1st''' |style="background:#ffffbf;"| '''1st'''
|- |-
!rowspan=5| 2005 !rowspan=4| 2005
|align=left| ] |align=left| ]
|align=left rowspan="2"| ] |align=left rowspan="2"| ]
| 20 | 20
Line 447: Line 540:
| 15th | 15th
|- |-
|align=left| ] |align=left| ]
|align=left| ] |align=left| ]
| 1 | 1
Line 457: Line 550:
|style="background:#ffdf9f;"| '''3rd''' |style="background:#ffdf9f;"| '''3rd'''
|- |-
!rowspan=4|2006
|align=left| ]
|align=left| ] |align=left| ]
|align=center colspan=7| Test driver
|-
!rowspan=5|2006
|align=left| ]
|align=left rowspan=2| ] |align=left rowspan=2| ]
| 20 | 20
Line 491: Line 580:
| 15th | 15th
|- |-
|align=left| ] |align=left| ]
| 1 | 1
| 0 | 0
Line 499: Line 588:
| N/A | N/A
| 23rd | 23rd
|-
|align=left| ]
|align=left| ]
|align=center colspan=7| Test driver
|- |-
!rowspan=3| 2007 !rowspan=3| 2007
|align=left| ] |align=left| ]
|align=left| ] |align=left| ]
| 7 | 7
Line 516: Line 601:
|- |-
|align=left rowspan=2| ] |align=left rowspan=2| ]
|align=left| ] |align=left| ]
| 1 | 1
| 0 | 0
Line 589: Line 674:
! 2013 ! 2013
|align=left| ] |align=left| ]
|align=left| ] |align=left| ]
| 19 | 19
| 13 | 13
Line 600: Line 685:
! 2014 ! 2014
|align=left| ] |align=left| ]
|align=left| ] |align=left| ]
| 19 | 19
| 0 | 0
Line 655: Line 740:
! 2019 ! 2019
|align=left| ] |align=left| ]
|align=left| ] |align=left| ]
| 5 | 21
| 1
| 2
| 2
| 9
| 240
| 5th
|-
!2020
|align=left| ]
|align=left| ]
| 17
| 0 | 0
| 0 | 0
| 0 | 0
| 2 | 1
| 64* | 33
| 4th* | 13th
|-
! 2021
|align=left| ]
|align=left| ]
| 22
| 0
| 0
| 0
| 1
| 43
| 12th
|-
! 2022
|align=left|]
|align=left| ]
| 20
| 0
| 0
| 0
| 0
| 37
| 12th
|-
! colspan="10" |{{center|{{small|Source:<ref name=SSBio>{{cite web|title=Sebastian Vettel: Racedriver biography – Career and success|url=https://www.speedsport-magazine.com/race-driver-database/biography/sebastian-vettel_-_2771.html|publisher=Speedsport Magazine|access-date=14 November 2020|archive-date=16 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201116073948/https://www.speedsport-magazine.com/race-driver-database/biography/sebastian-vettel_-_2771.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name=MMBio>{{cite web|title=Sebastian Vettel|url=https://database.motorsportmagazine.com/database/drivers/sebastian-vettel|work=MotorSport|access-date=14 November 2020|archive-date=21 October 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201021235808/https://database.motorsportmagazine.com/database/drivers/sebastian-vettel|url-status=live}}</ref>}}}}
|}

===Complete Formula BMW ADAC results===
(]) (Races in '''bold''' indicate pole position, races in ''italics'' indicate fastest lap)
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center; font-size:85%"
|-
! Year
! Team
! 1
! 2
! 3
! 4
! 5
! 6
! 7
! 8
! 9
! 10
! 11
! 12
! 13
! 14
! 15
! 16
! 17
! 18
! 19
! 20
! DC
! Points
|-
| ]
!nowrap| Eifelland Racing
|style="background:#EFCFFF;"| ]<br>{{small|Ret}}
|style="background:#DFDFDF;"| ]<br>{{small|2}}
|style="background:#FFFFBF;"| '']''<br>{{small|1}}
|style="background:#FFFFBF;"| ''']'''<br>{{small|1}}
|style="background:#FFDF9F;"| ]<br>{{small|3}}
|style="background:#DFDFDF;"| '']''<br>{{small|2}}
|style="background:#DFFFDF;"| '']''<br>{{small|6}}
|style="background:#DFFFDF;"| ]<br>{{small|7}}
|style="background:#EFCFFF;"| ]<br>{{small|Ret}}
|style="background:#FFFFBF;"| ''']'''<br>{{small|1}}
|style="background:#DFFFDF;"| ''']'''<br>{{small|10}}
|style="background:#DFDFDF;"| ''']'''<br>{{small|2}}
|style="background:#FFFFBF;"| ''''']'''''<br>{{small|1}}
|style="background:#DFDFDF;"| ]<br>{{small|2}}
|style="background:#DFFFDF;"| ]<br>{{small|6}}
|style="background:#DFFFDF;"| ]<br>{{small|8}}
|style="background:#FFFFFF;"| ]<br>{{small|DNS}}
|style="background:#FFDF9F;"| ]<br>{{small|3}}
|style="background:#FFDF9F;"| ]<br>{{small|3}}
|style="background:#FFFFBF;"| ]<br>{{small|1}}
!style="background:#DFDFDF;"| 2nd
!style="background:#DFDFDF;"| 216
|-
| ]
!nowrap| ]
|style="background:#FFFFBF;"| ''''']'''''<br>{{small|1}}
|style="background:#FFFFBF;"| ''''']'''''<br>{{small|1}}
|style="background:#DFDFDF;"| ''']'''<br>{{small|2}}
|style="background:#FFFFBF;"| ''''']'''''<br>{{small|1}}
|style="background:#FFFFBF;"| ''''']'''''<br>{{small|1}}
|style="background:#FFDF9F;"| ]<br>{{small|3}}
|style="background:#FFFFBF;"| ''''']'''''<br>{{small|1}}
|style="background:#FFFFBF;"| '']''<br>{{small|1}}
|style="background:#FFFFBF;"| ''''']'''''<br>{{small|1}}
|style="background:#FFFFBF;"| ]<br>{{small|1}}
|style="background:#FFFFBF;"| ''''']'''''<br>{{small|1}}
|style="background:#FFFFBF;"| ''''']'''''<br>{{small|1}}
|style="background:#FFFFBF;"| ''''']'''''<br>{{small|1}}
|style="background:#FFFFBF;"| ''''']'''''<br>{{small|1}}
|style="background:#FFFFBF;"| ''']'''<br>{{small|1}}
|style="background:#FFFFBF;"| ''''']'''''<br>{{small|1}}
|style="background:#FFFFBF;"| '']''<br>{{small|1}}
|style="background:#FFFFBF;"| ''''']'''''<br>{{small|1}}
|style="background:#FFFFBF;"| '']''<br>{{small|1}}
|style="background:#FFFFBF;"| ''']'''<br>{{small|1}}
!style="background:#FFFFBF;"| 1st
!style="background:#FFFFBF;"| 387
|- |-
! colspan="26" |{{center|{{small|Source:<ref name=DriverDBOverview/>}}}}
|} |}
<nowiki>*</nowiki> Season still in progress


===Complete Formula 3 Euro Series results=== ===Complete Formula 3 Euro Series results===
(]) (Races in '''bold''' indicate pole position, races in ''italics'' indicate fastest lap) (]) (Races in '''bold''' indicate pole position, races in ''italics'' indicate fastest lap)
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center; font-size:90%" {| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center; font-size:85%"
|- |-
! Year ! Year
Line 698: Line 898:
! Points ! Points
|- |-
| ] |id=2005R| ]
! ] !nowrap| ]
! ] F305/011 !nowrap| ] F305/011
!nowrap| ]<ref>{{cite web|title=Starterliste 2005 Formula 3 Euro Series|url=https://www.formel3guide.com/images/starter/2005-starter-es.pdf|publisher=Formel 3 Guide|access-date=14 November 2020|archive-date=14 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201114091843/https://www.formel3guide.com/images/starter/2005-starter-es.pdf|url-status=live}}</ref>
! ]
|style="background:#cfcfff;"| ]<br>{{small|15}} |style="background:#cfcfff;"| ]<br>{{small|15}}
|style="background:#dfffdf;"| ]<br>{{small|5}} |style="background:#dfffdf;"| ]<br>{{small|5}}
Line 725: Line 925:
! 57 ! 57
|- |-
| ] |id=2006R| ]
! ] !nowrap| ]
! ] F305/059 !nowrap| ] F305/059
!nowrap| ]<ref>{{cite web|title=Starterliste 2006 Formula 3 Euro Series|url=https://www.formel3guide.com/images/starter/2006-starter-es.pdf|publisher=Formel 3 Guide|access-date=14 November 2020|archive-date=16 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201116193634/https://www.formel3guide.com/images/starter/2006-starter-es.pdf|url-status=live}}</ref>
! ]
|style="background:#dfffdf;"| ]<br>{{small|5}} |style="background:#dfffdf;"| ]<br>{{small|5}}
|style="background:#ffffbf;"| ]<br>{{small|1}} |style="background:#ffffbf;"| ]<br>{{small|1}}
Line 751: Line 951:
!style="background:#dfdfdf;"| 2nd !style="background:#dfdfdf;"| 2nd
!style="background:#dfdfdf;"| 75 !style="background:#dfdfdf;"| 75
|-
! colspan="26" |{{center|{{small|Source:<ref>{{cite web|title=Sebastian Vettel Career Season 2005|url=https://results.motorsportstats.com/drivers/sebastian-vettel/season/2005|publisher=Motorsport Stats|access-date=14 November 2020|archive-date=16 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201116012451/https://results.motorsportstats.com/drivers/sebastian-vettel/season/2005|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name=2006Stats>{{cite web|title=Sebastian Vettel Career Season 2006|url=https://results.motorsportstats.com/drivers/sebastian-vettel/season/2006|publisher=Motorsport Stats|access-date=14 November 2020|archive-url=https://archive.today/20230615162633/https://motorsportstats.com/driver/sebastian-vettel/summary/series/formula-one|archive-date=15 June 2023|url-status=live}}</ref>}}}}
|} |}


===Complete Formula Renault 3.5 Series results=== ===Complete Formula Renault 3.5 Series results===
(]) (Races in '''bold''' indicate pole position, races in ''italics'' indicate fastest lap) (]) (Races in '''bold''' indicate pole position, races in ''italics'' indicate fastest lap)
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center; font-size:90%" {| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center; font-size:85%"
|- |-
! Year ! Year
Line 779: Line 981:
! Points ! Points
|- |-
| ] |id=2006F| ]
! ] !nowrap| ]
| ] | ]
| ] | ]
Line 801: Line 1,003:
! 28 ! 28
|- |-
| ] |id=2007F| ]
! ] !nowrap| ]
|style="background:#dfffdf;"| ]<br />{{small|5}} |style="background:#dfffdf;"| ]<br />{{small|5}}
|style="background:#ffdf9f;"| ]<br />{{small|3}} |style="background:#ffdf9f;"| ]<br />{{small|3}}
Line 822: Line 1,024:
! 5th ! 5th
! 74 ! 74
|-
! colspan="21" |{{center|{{small|Source:<ref name=2006Stats/><ref>{{cite web|title=Sebastian Vettel Career Season 2007|url=https://results.motorsportstats.com/drivers/sebastian-vettel/season/2007|publisher=Motorsport Stats|access-date=14 November 2020|archive-date=16 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201116013549/https://results.motorsportstats.com/drivers/sebastian-vettel/season/2007|url-status=live}}</ref>}}}}
|} |}


===Complete Formula One results=== ===Complete Formula One results===
(]) (Races in '''bold''' indicate pole position; races in ''italics'' indicate fastest lap) (]) (Races in '''bold''' indicate pole position; races in ''italics'' indicate fastest lap)
{| class="wikitable" style="font-size: 90%; text-align: center" {| class="wikitable" style="font-size: 85%; text-align: center"
!Year !Year
!Entrant !Entrant
Line 852: Line 1,056:
!20 !20
!21 !21
!WDC !22
!{{Abbr|WDC|World Drivers' Championship standing}}
!] !]
|- |-
|{{f1|2006}} |{{f1|2006}}
!] !nowrap|]
!] ] !nowrap|] ]
!] P86 2.4 ] !nowrap|] P86 2.4 ]
|] |]
|] |]
Line 877: Line 1,082:
|style="background:#f0f8ff;"|]<br />{{small|TD}} |style="background:#f0f8ff;"|]<br />{{small|TD}}
|style="background:#f0f8ff;"|]<br />{{small|TD}} |style="background:#f0f8ff;"|]<br />{{small|TD}}
|colspan=4|
|
|
|
!&nbsp;– !&nbsp;–
!&nbsp;– !&nbsp;–
|- |-
|rowspan=2| {{f1|2007}} |id=2007R rowspan=2| {{f1|2007}}
!] !]
!] ] !] ]
!] P86/7 2.4 ] !] P86/7 2.4 ]
Line 897: Line 1,100:
|] |]
|] |]
|colspan=12|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
!rowspan=2|14th !rowspan=2|14th
!rowspan=2|6 !rowspan=2|6
Line 914: Line 1,107:
!] ] !] ]
!] 056 2.4 ] !] 056 2.4 ]
|colspan=10|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|style="background:#cfcfff;"|]<br />{{small|16}} |style="background:#cfcfff;"|]<br />{{small|16}}
|style="background:#cfcfff;"|]<br />{{small|19}} |style="background:#cfcfff;"|]<br />{{small|19}}
Line 931: Line 1,115:
|style="background:#dfffdf;"|]<br />{{small|4}} |style="background:#dfffdf;"|]<br />{{small|4}}
|style="background:#efcfff;"|]<br />{{small|Ret}} |style="background:#efcfff;"|]<br />{{small|Ret}}
|colspan=5|
|
|
|
|
|- |-
|rowspan=2|{{f1|2008}} |id=2008R rowspan=2|{{f1|2008}}
!rowspan=2|] !rowspan=2|]
!] ] !] ]
Line 945: Line 1,126:
|style="background:#efcfff;"|]<br />{{small|Ret}} |style="background:#efcfff;"|]<br />{{small|Ret}}
|style="background:#cfcfff;"|]<br />{{small|17}} |style="background:#cfcfff;"|]<br />{{small|17}}
|colspan=17|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
!rowspan=2|8th !rowspan=2|8th
!rowspan=2|35 !rowspan=2|35
Line 966: Line 1,132:
!] ] !] ]
!] 056 2.4 ] !] 056 2.4 ]
|colspan=5|
|
|
|
|
|
|style="background:#dfffdf;"|]<br />{{small|5}} |style="background:#dfffdf;"|]<br />{{small|5}}
|style="background:#dfffdf;"|]<br />{{small|8}} |style="background:#dfffdf;"|]<br />{{small|8}}
Line 984: Line 1,146:
|style="background:#cfcfff;"|]<br />{{small|9}} |style="background:#cfcfff;"|]<br />{{small|9}}
|style="background:#dfffdf;"|]<br />{{small|4}} |style="background:#dfffdf;"|]<br />{{small|4}}
|colspan=4|
|
|
|
|- |-
|{{f1|2009}} |id=2009R|{{f1|2009}}
!] !]
!] ] !] ]
!] RS27-2009 2.4 ] !] RS27-2009 2.4 ]
|style="background:#cfcfff;"|]<br /><small>13{{smallsup|†}}</small> |style="background:#cfcfff;"|]<br />{{small|13<sup>†</sup>}}
|style="background:#cfcfff;"|]<br /><small>15{{smallsup|†}}</small> |style="background:#cfcfff;"|]<br />{{small|15<sup>†</sup>}}
|style="background:#ffffbf;"|''']'''<br />{{small|1}} |style="background:#ffffbf;"|''']'''<br />{{small|1}}
|style="background:#dfdfdf;"|]<br />{{small|2}} |style="background:#dfdfdf;"|]<br />{{small|2}}
Line 1,009: Line 1,169:
|style="background:#dfffdf;"|]<br />{{small|4}} |style="background:#dfffdf;"|]<br />{{small|4}}
|style="background:#ffffbf;"|'']''<br />{{small|1}} |style="background:#ffffbf;"|'']''<br />{{small|1}}
|colspan=5|
|
|
|
|
!style="background:#dfdfdf;"|2nd !style="background:#dfdfdf;"|2nd
!style="background:#dfdfdf;"|84 !style="background:#dfdfdf;"|84
|- |-
|{{f1|2010}} |id=2010R|{{f1|2010}}
!] !]
!] ] !] ]
Line 1,039: Line 1,196:
|style="background:#ffffbf;"|]<br />{{small|1}} |style="background:#ffffbf;"|]<br />{{small|1}}
|style="background:#ffffbf;"|''']'''<br />{{small|1}} |style="background:#ffffbf;"|''']'''<br />{{small|1}}
|colspan=3|
|
|
!style="background:#ffffbf;"|1st !style="background:#ffffbf;"|1st
!style="background:#ffffbf;"|256 !style="background:#ffffbf;"|256
|- |-
|{{F1|2011}} |id=2011R|{{F1|2011}}
!] !]
!] ] !] ]
Line 1,067: Line 1,223:
|style="background:#efcfff;"|''']'''<br />{{small|Ret}} |style="background:#efcfff;"|''']'''<br />{{small|Ret}}
|style="background:#dfdfdf;"|''']'''<br />{{small|2}} |style="background:#dfdfdf;"|''']'''<br />{{small|2}}
|colspan=3|
|
|
!style="background:#ffffbf;"|1st !style="background:#ffffbf;"|1st
!style="background:#ffffbf;"|392 !style="background:#ffffbf;"|392
|- |-
|{{F1|2012}} |id=2012R|{{F1|2012}}
!] !]
!] ] !] ]
Line 1,088: Line 1,243:
|style="background:#dfffdf;"|'']''<br />{{small|4}} |style="background:#dfffdf;"|'']''<br />{{small|4}}
|style="background:#dfdfdf;"|]<br />{{small|2}} |style="background:#dfdfdf;"|]<br />{{small|2}}
|style="background:#cfcfff;"|]<br /><small>22{{smallsup|†}}</small> |style="background:#cfcfff;"|]<br />{{small|22<sup>†</sup>}}
|style="background:#ffffbf;"|]<br />{{small|1}} |style="background:#ffffbf;"|]<br />{{small|1}}
|style="background:#ffffbf;"|''''']'''''<br />{{small|1}} |style="background:#ffffbf;"|''''']'''''<br />{{small|1}}
Line 1,096: Line 1,251:
|style="background:#dfdfdf;"|''''']'''''<br />{{small|2}} |style="background:#dfdfdf;"|''''']'''''<br />{{small|2}}
|style="background:#dfffdf;"|]<br />{{small|6}} |style="background:#dfffdf;"|]<br />{{small|6}}
|colspan=2|
|
!style="background:#ffffbf;"|1st !style="background:#ffffbf;"|1st
!style="background:#ffffbf;"|281 !style="background:#ffffbf;"|281
|- |-
|{{F1|2013}} |id=2013R|{{F1|2013}}
!] !]
!] ] !] ]
!] RS27-2013 2.4 ] !] RS27-2013 2.4 ]
Line 1,123: Line 1,278:
|style="background:#ffffbf;"|''''']'''''<br />{{small|1}} |style="background:#ffffbf;"|''''']'''''<br />{{small|1}}
|style="background:#ffffbf;"|''']'''<br />{{small|1}} |style="background:#ffffbf;"|''']'''<br />{{small|1}}
|colspan=3|
|
|
!style="background:#ffffbf;"|1st !style="background:#ffffbf;"|1st
!style="background:#ffffbf;"|397 !style="background:#ffffbf;"|397
|- |-
| {{F1|2014}} |id=2014R| {{F1|2014}}
!] !]
!] ] !] ]
!] Energy F1{{nbhyph}}2014 1.6 ] ] !] Energy F1{{nbhyph}}2014 1.6 ] ]
Line 1,151: Line 1,305:
|style="background:#dfffdf;"|]<br />{{small|5}} |style="background:#dfffdf;"|]<br />{{small|5}}
|style="background:#dfffdf;"|]<br />{{small|8}} |style="background:#dfffdf;"|]<br />{{small|8}}
|colspan=3|
|
|
!5th !5th
!167 !167
|- |-
|{{F1|2015}} |id=2015R|{{F1|2015}}
!] !]
!] ] !] ]
Line 1,170: Line 1,323:
|style="background:#ffdf9f;"|]<br />{{small|3}} |style="background:#ffdf9f;"|]<br />{{small|3}}
|style="background:#ffffbf;"|]<br />{{small|1}} |style="background:#ffffbf;"|]<br />{{small|1}}
|style="background:#cfcfff;"|]<br /><small>12{{smallsup|†}}</small> |style="background:#cfcfff;"|]<br />{{small|12<sup>†</sup>}}
|style="background:#dfdfdf;"|]<br />{{small|2}} |style="background:#dfdfdf;"|]<br />{{small|2}}
|style="background:#ffffbf;"|''']'''<br />{{small|1}} |style="background:#ffffbf;"|''']'''<br />{{small|1}}
Line 1,179: Line 1,332:
|style="background:#ffdf9f;"|]<br />{{small|3}} |style="background:#ffdf9f;"|]<br />{{small|3}}
|style="background:#dfffdf;"|]<br />{{small|4}} |style="background:#dfffdf;"|]<br />{{small|4}}
|colspan=3|
|
|
!style="background:#ffdf9f;"|3rd !style="background:#ffdf9f;"|3rd
!style="background:#ffdf9f;"|278 !style="background:#ffdf9f;"|278
|- |-
|{{F1|2016}} |id=2016R|{{F1|2016}}
!] !]
!] ] !] ]
Line 1,209: Line 1,361:
|style="background:#dfffdf;"| ]<br />{{small|5}} |style="background:#dfffdf;"| ]<br />{{small|5}}
|style="background:#ffdf9f;"| '']''<br />{{small|3}} |style="background:#ffdf9f;"| '']''<br />{{small|3}}
|
!4th !4th
!212 !212
|- |-
|{{F1|2017}} |id=2017R|{{F1|2017}}
!] !]
!] ] !] ]
Line 1,236: Line 1,389:
|style="background:#ffffbf;"|]<br />{{small|1}} |style="background:#ffffbf;"|]<br />{{small|1}}
|style="background:#ffdf9f;"|]<br />{{small|3}} |style="background:#ffdf9f;"|]<br />{{small|3}}
|colspan=2|
|
!style="background:#dfdfdf;"|2nd !style="background:#dfdfdf;"|2nd
!style="background:#dfdfdf;"|317 !style="background:#dfdfdf;"|317
|- |-
|{{F1|2018}} |id=2018R|{{F1|2018}}
!] !]
!] ] !] ]
Line 1,265: Line 1,418:
|style=background:#dfffdf;"| ]<br />{{small|6}} |style=background:#dfffdf;"| ]<br />{{small|6}}
|style=background:#dfdfdf;"| '']''<br />{{small|2}} |style=background:#dfdfdf;"| '']''<br />{{small|2}}
|
!style="background:#dfdfdf;"| 2nd !style="background:#dfdfdf;"| 2nd
!style="background:#dfdfdf;"| 320 !style="background:#dfdfdf;"| 320
|- |-
|{{F1|2019}} |id=2019R|{{F1|2019}}
!] !]
!] ] !] ]
!] 064 1.6 ] ] !] 064 1.6 ] ]
Line 1,277: Line 1,431:
|style=background:#ffdf9f;"|]<br />{{small|3}} |style=background:#ffdf9f;"|]<br />{{small|3}}
|style=background:#dfffdf;"|]<br />{{small|4}} |style=background:#dfffdf;"|]<br />{{small|4}}
|style=|] |style=background:#dfdfdf;"|]<br />{{small|2}}
|style=|] |style=background:#dfdfdf;"|''']'''<br />{{small|2}}
|style=|] |style=background:#dfffdf;"|'']''<br />{{small|5}}
|style=|] |style=background:#dfffdf;"|]<br />{{small|4}}
|style=|] |style=background:#cfcfff;"|]<br />{{small|16}}
|style=|] |style=background:#dfdfdf;"|]<br />{{small|2}}
|style=|] |style=background:#ffdf9f;"|]<br />{{small|3}}
|style=|] |style=background:#dfffdf;"|'']''<br />{{small|4}}
|style=|] |style=background:#cfcfff;"|]<br />{{small|13}}
|style=|] |style=background:#ffffbf;"|]<br />{{small|1}}
|style=|] |style=background:#efcfff;"|]<br />{{small|Ret}}
|style=|] |style=background:#dfdfdf;"|''']'''<br />{{small|2}}
|style=|] |style=background:#dfdfdf;"|]<br />{{small|2}}
|style=|] |style=background:#efcfff;"|]<br />{{small|Ret}}
|style=|] |style=background:#cfcfff;"|]<br />{{small|17<sup>†</sup>}}
|style=|] |style=background:#dfffdf;"|]<br />{{small|5}}
|
!4th*
!64* !5th
!240
|-
|id=2020R|{{F1|2020}}
!]
!] ]
!] 065 1.6 ] ]
| {{F1R2020|VET|AUT2}}
| {{F1R2020|VET|STY2}}
| {{F1R2020|VET|HUN2}}
| {{F1R2020|VET|GBR2}}
| {{F1R2020|VET|70A2}}
| {{F1R2020|VET|ESP2}}
| {{F1R2020|VET|BEL2}}
| {{F1R2020|VET|ITA2}}
| {{F1R2020|VET|TUS2}}
| {{F1R2020|VET|RUS2}}
| {{F1R2020|VET|EIF2}}
| {{F1R2020|VET|POR2}}
| {{F1R2020|VET|EMI2}}
| {{F1R2020|VET|TUR2}}
| {{F1R2020|VET|BHR2}}
| {{F1R2020|VET|SKH2}}
| {{F1R2020|VET|ABU2}}
|colspan=5|
! {{F1R2020|VET|WDC}}
! {{F1R2020|VET|points2}}
|-
|id=2021R|{{F1|2021}}
!]
!] ]
!] F1 M12 1.6 ] ]
|{{F1R2021|VET|BHR2}}
|{{F1R2021|VET|EMI2}}
|{{F1R2021|VET|POR2}}
|{{F1R2021|VET|ESP2}}
|{{F1R2021|VET|MON2}}
|{{F1R2021|VET|AZE2}}
|{{F1R2021|VET|FRA2}}
|{{F1R2021|VET|STY2}}
|{{F1R2021|VET|AUT2}}
|{{F1R2021|VET|GBR2}}
|{{F1R2021|VET|HUN2}}
|{{F1R2021|VET|BEL2}}
|{{F1R2021|VET|NED2}}
|{{F1R2021|VET|ITA2}}
|{{F1R2021|VET|RUS2}}
|{{F1R2021|VET|TUR2}}
|{{F1R2021|VET|USA2}}
|{{F1R2021|VET|MXC2}}
|{{F1R2021|VET|SAP2}}
|{{F1R2021|VET|QAT2}}
|{{F1R2021|VET|SAU2}}
|{{F1R2021|VET|ABU2}}
!{{F1R2021|VET|WDC}}
!{{F1R2021|VET|points}}
|-
| id=2022R| {{F1|2022}}
!nowrap|]
!nowrap|] ]
!nowrap|] F1 M13 E Performance 1.6 ]
|{{F1R2022|VET|BHR2}}
|{{F1R2022|VET|SAU2}}
|{{F1R2022|VET|AUS2}}
|{{F1R2022|VET|EMI2}}
|{{F1R2022|VET|MIA2}}
|{{F1R2022|VET|ESP2}}
|{{F1R2022|VET|MON2}}
|{{F1R2022|VET|AZE2}}
|{{F1R2022|VET|CAN2}}
|{{F1R2022|VET|GBR2}}
|{{F1R2022|VET|AUT2}}
|{{F1R2022|VET|FRA2}}
|{{F1R2022|VET|HUN2}}
|{{F1R2022|VET|BEL2}}
|{{F1R2022|VET|NED2}}
|{{F1R2022|VET|ITA2}}
|{{F1R2022|VET|SIN2}}
|{{F1R2022|VET|JPN2}}
|{{F1R2022|VET|USA2}}
|{{F1R2022|VET|MXC2}}
|{{F1R2022|VET|SAP2}}
|{{F1R2022|VET|ABU2}}
!{{F1R2022|VET|WDC}}
!{{F1R2022|VET|points2}}
|-
! colspan="29" |{{center|{{small|Source:<ref name=SeasonsOverview>{{cite web|title=Sebastian Vettel – Seasons|url=https://www.statsf1.com/en/sebastian-vettel/saison.aspx|website=Stats F1|access-date=14 November 2020|archive-date=29 June 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210629194712/https://www.statsf1.com/en/sebastian-vettel/saison.aspx|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Sebastian Vettel – Involvement|url=https://www.statsf1.com/en/sebastian-vettel/engagement.aspx|website=Stats F1|access-date=14 November 2020|archive-date=15 April 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200415124951/https://www.statsf1.com/en/sebastian-vettel/engagement.aspx|url-status=live}}</ref>}}}}
|} |}
{{smallsup|†}} Did not finish, but was classified as he had completed more than 90% of the race distance.<br> {{smallsup|{{dagger}}}} Did not finish, but was classified as he had completed more than 90% of the race distance.<br>
{{smallsup|{{double-dagger}}}} Half points awarded as less than 75% of race distance was completed.
<nowiki>*</nowiki> Season still in progress.


===Formula One records=== ===Formula One records===
Line 1,307: Line 1,547:
! Ref ! Ref
|- |-
| ''']''' | ''']'''
| 17 | 2
| {{F1|2011}}<ref group="N">Record shared with ] and ] although Schumacher did so with fewer total races in the season ({{F1|2002}}).</ref> | nowrap| ] and ]<ref group="N">Record shared with ] and ].</ref>
|<ref>{{cite web|date=1 December 2019|title=F1 Grand Slams|url=https://www.salracing.com/story/2017/4/f1-grand-slams|access-date=12 August 2020|work=Salracing|archive-date=6 October 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211006145943/https://www.salracing.com/story/2017/4/f1-grand-slams|url-status=live}}</ref>
|<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.statsf1.com/en/statistiques/pilote/podium/annee.aspx|title=Statistics Drivers - Podiums - In a year|last=|first=|date=|website=www.statsf1.com|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=12 January 2019}}</ref>
|-
| ''']'''
| 13
| {{F1|2013}}<ref group="N">Record shared with ] although Schumacher did so with fewer total races in the season ({{F1|2004}}).</ref>
|<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.statsf1.com/en/statistiques/pilote/victoire/annee.aspx|title=Statistics Drivers - Wins - In a year|website=www.statsf1.com|access-date=12 January 2019}}</ref>
|- |-
| ''']''' | ''']'''
| 15 | 15
| {{F1|2011}} | {{F1|2011}}
|<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.statsf1.com/en/statistiques/pilote/pole/annee.aspx|title=Statistics Drivers - Pole positions - In a year|website=www.statsf1.com|access-date=12 January 2019}}</ref> |<ref>{{Cite web|title=Statistics Drivers – Pole positions – In a year|url=https://www.statsf1.com/en/statistiques/pilote/pole/annee.aspx|access-date=12 January 2019|website=Stats F1|archive-date=2 October 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201002164008/https://www.statsf1.com/en/statistiques/pilote/pole/annee.aspx|url-status=live}}</ref>
|-
| ''']'''
| 739
| {{F1|2011}}
|<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.statsf1.com/en/statistiques/pilote/entete/tour-annee.aspx|title=Statistics Drivers - Lead - Laps in a year|website=www.statsf1.com|access-date=12 January 2019}}</ref>
|-
| ''']'''
| 9
| ]&nbsp;– ]
|<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.statsf1.com/en/statistiques/pilote/victoire/consecutive.aspx|title=Wins - Consecutively|last=|first=|date=|website=Stats F1|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=12 January 2019}}</ref>
|-
| ''']'''
| 2
| ] and ]<ref group="N">Record shared with ] ({{F1|1952}}) and ] ({{F1|1963}}).</ref>
|<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.salracing.com/story/2017/4/f1-grand-slams|title=F1 Grand Slams|work=salracing.com|accessdate=April 2, 2019}}</ref>
|-
| ''']'''
| 9
| {{F1|2011}}<ref group="N">Record shared with ] although Mansell did so with fewer total races in the season ({{F1|1992}}).</ref>
|<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/formula-1/2017/10/20/lewis-hamiltons-record-breaking-season-targets-next-list/|title=Lewis Hamilton's record-breaking season and the targets that are next on his list...|last=|first=|date=|website=www.telegraph.co.uk|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=12 January 2019}}</ref>
|- |-
| ''']''' | ''']'''
| 21 years, 72 days | 21 years, 72 days
| ] (13 September 2008) | ] (13 September 2008)
|<ref>{{Cite news|last=Benson|first=Andrew|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/motorsport/formula_one/7613904.stm|title=Vettel on pole at rain-hit Monza|date=13 September 2008|work=BBC Sport|access-date=19 March 2020|archive-date=17 July 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190717102036/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/motorsport/formula_one/7613904.stm|url-status=live}}</ref>
|<ref name="mail">{{cite news|url=http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/formulaone/article-1329665/Sebastian-Vettel-cried-joy-triumph-Red-Bull.html |title=Superman Seb! Youngest F1 champion cried with joy at his triumph for Red Bull |date=14 November 2010 |accessdate=7 July 2011 |work=Daily Mail |location=London}}</ref>
|- |-
| ''']''' (pole position and race win) | ''']''' (pole position and race win)
| 21 years, 73 days | 21 years, 73 days
| ] (14 September 2008) | ] (14 September 2008)
|<ref name=":1" />
|<ref name="Career & Records">{{cite web|url=https://sebvettelnews.com/career-and-records/|title=Sebastian Vettel Fan Page - Career & Records|publisher=sebvettelnews.com|accessdate=28 August 2018}}</ref>
|- |-
| ''']''' (pole position, race win, and fastest lap) | nowrap| ''']''' (pole position, race win, and fastest lap)
| 21 years, 353 days | nowrap| 21 years, 353 days
| ] (21 June 2009) | ] (21 June 2009)
|<ref name="Career & Records" /> |<ref name=":1" />
|-
| ''']''' (pole position, win, fastest lap, and led every lap)
|{{nowrap| 24 years, 119 days}}
| ] (30 October 2011)
|<ref name="Career & Records" />
|- |-
| ''']''' | ''']'''
| 23 years, 135 days | 23 years, 134 days
| ] (14 November 2010) | ] (14 November 2010)
|<ref>{{Cite web|date=22 October 2014|title=Age and the F1 driver – from teenage stars to fast 50-year-olds|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/features/2014/10/Age-and-the-F1-driver---from-teenage-stars-to-fast-50-year-olds.html|access-date=19 March 2020|website=Formula 1|archive-date=15 December 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171215054141/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/features/2014/10/Age-and-the-F1-driver---from-teenage-stars-to-fast-50-year-olds.html|url-status=live}}</ref>
|<ref name="mail"/>
|- |-
|'''Youngest World Drivers' Championship runner-up''' |'''Youngest World Drivers' Championship runner-up'''
| 22 years, 121 days | 22 years, 121 days
| ] (1 November 2009) | ] (1 November 2009)
|<ref name="telegraph">{{cite news|url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/motorsport/formulaone/redbull/7404664/Sebastian-Vettel-F1-driver-profile.html |title=Sebastian Vettel: F1 driver profile |date=9 March 2010 |accessdate=7 July 2011 |work=The Daily Telegraph |location=London |first=Tom |last=Cary}}</ref> |<ref name="telegraph">{{cite news|last=Cary|first=Tom|date=9 March 2010|title=Sebastian Vettel: F1 driver profile|work=The Telegraph|url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/motorsport/formulaone/redbull/7404664/Sebastian-Vettel-F1-driver-profile.html |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20220110/https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/motorsport/formulaone/redbull/7404664/Sebastian-Vettel-F1-driver-profile.html |archive-date=10 January 2022 |url-access=subscription |url-status=live|access-date=7 July 2011}}{{cbignore}}</ref>
|- |-
|''']''' |''']'''
| 6 seconds | 6 seconds
| ] (25 August 2006) (6 seconds into his career, for speeding in the pit lane) | ] (25 August 2006)<br>(6 seconds into his career, for speeding in the pit lane)
|<ref>{{cite news|title=Record-breaking Sebastian Vettel&nbsp;– The German has been rewriting the F1 history books|url=http://www1.skysports.com/f1/news/12475/8986770/record-breaking-sebastian-vettel-the-german-has-been-rewriting-the-f1-history-books|accessdate=4 November 2013|newspaper=Skysports F1|date=27 October 2013}}</ref> |<ref name=":1">{{cite news|last=Esler|first=William|date=27 October 2013|title=Record-breaking Sebastian Vettel – The German has been rewriting the F1 history books|newspaper=Sky Sports|url=http://www1.skysports.com/f1/news/12475/8986770/record-breaking-sebastian-vettel-the-german-has-been-rewriting-the-f1-history-books|access-date=4 November 2013|archive-date=30 October 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131030031407/http://www1.skysports.com/f1/news/12475/8986770/record-breaking-sebastian-vettel-the-german-has-been-rewriting-the-f1-history-books|url-status=live}}</ref>
|} |}

;Footnotes: ;Footnotes:
{{Reflist|group=N}} {{Reflist|group=N}}


==See also== ==Notes==
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==References== ==References==
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==External links== ==External links==
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* {{official website|http://www.sebastianvettel.de/index.php/en/}} * {{official website|http://www.sebastianvettel.de/index.php/en/}}
* {{IMDb name|id=2697599|name=Sebastian Vettel}} * {{IMDb name|id=2697599|name=Sebastian Vettel}}
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Latest revision as of 17:07, 6 January 2025

German racing driver (born 1987)

Sebastian Vettel
Vettel at the 2012 Bahrain Grand Prix
Born (1987-07-03) 3 July 1987 (age 37)
Heppenheim, Hesse, West Germany
Spouse Hanna Prater ​(m. 2019)​
Children3
RelativesFabian Vettel (brother)
Formula One World Championship career
NationalityGermany German
Active years2007–2022
TeamsBMW Sauber, Toro Rosso, Red Bull, Ferrari, Aston Martin
EnginesBMW, Ferrari, Renault, Mercedes
Car number5
1 (2014)
Entries300 (299 starts)
Championships4 (2010, 2011, 2012, 2013)
Wins53
Podiums122
Career points3098
Pole positions57
Fastest laps38
First entry2007 United States Grand Prix
First win2008 Italian Grand Prix
Last win2019 Singapore Grand Prix
Last entry2022 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix
Previous series
Championship titles
2004Formula BMW ADAC
Medal record
Motor racing
Representing  Germany
Race of Champions
Winner 2007 London Team
Winner 2008 London Team
Winner 2009 Beijing Team
Winner 2010 Düsseldorf Team
Winner 2011 Düsseldorf Team
Winner 2012 Bangkok Team
Winner 2015 London Individual
Winner 2017 Miami Team
Runner-up 2022 Piteå Individual
Gold medal – first place 2019 Mexico City Skills
Websitesebastianvettel.de
Signature
Sebastian Vettel signature

Sebastian Vettel (German pronunciation: [zeˈbasti̯a(ː)n ˈfɛtl̩] ; born 3 July 1987) is a German racing driver, who most recently competed in Formula One from 2007 to 2022. Vettel won four Formula One World Drivers' Championship titles, which he won consecutively from 2010 to 2013 with Red Bull, and remains the youngest-ever World Drivers' Champion; he won 53 Grands Prix across 16 seasons.

Born and raised in Heppenheim, Vettel began competitive kart racing aged eight. After a successful karting career—culminating in his victory at the junior direct-drive Karting European Championship in 2001—Vettel graduated to junior formulae. He started his career in Formula BMW ADAC, dominating the championship in 2004 with 18 wins from 20 races. Vettel then progressed to the Formula 3 Euro Series in 2005, taking several victories and finishing runner-up to Paul di Resta the following season. A test driver for BMW Sauber since 2006, Vettel made his Formula One debut at the 2007 United States Grand Prix. Vettel replaced Scott Speed at Toro Rosso after the European Grand Prix for the remainder of the 2007 season, as part of the Red Bull Junior Team. Retaining his seat for 2008, Vettel achieved his maiden pole position and victory at the Italian Grand Prix to become the then-youngest driver to win a Formula One Grand Prix. Vettel was promoted to parent team Red Bull in 2009, taking several wins as he finished runner-up to Jenson Button in the World Drivers' Championship.

After winning the title-deciding Abu Dhabi Grand Prix in 2010, Vettel became the youngest-ever Formula One World Drivers' Champion, aged 23. Vettel won his second and third championships in 2011 and 2012, dominating the former and winning the latter amidst a close title battle with Fernando Alonso. Vettel set several records in 2013, winning 13 Grands Prix—including a then-record nine consecutive victories—to claim his fourth consecutive title with Red Bull. After a winless 2014 campaign, Vettel signed for Ferrari, replacing Alonso to partner Kimi Räikkönen; he took several wins in his debut season, finishing third in the standings. Following another winless season in 2016, Vettel emerged as the closest challenger to Mercedes and Lewis Hamilton, finishing runner-up in 2017 and 2018 after achieving several victories across both campaigns. Partnered by Charles Leclerc for 2019, Vettel took his final win for Ferrari at the Singapore Grand Prix before leaving the team at the end of the 2020 season. Vettel joined the recently-established Aston Martin in 2021, where he scored his final podium finish at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix.

Vettel retired at the end of the 2022 season, having achieved the fourth-most wins (53), fourth-most pole positions (57), fifth-most fastest laps (38), and third-most podium finishes (122) in Formula One. Vettel won the Race of Champions in 2015, further winning the Nations' Cup six consecutive times from 2007 to 2012 alongside Michael Schumacher, representing Germany. He is also a prominent environmental and climate activist; since 2023, he has been co-owner of the Germany SailGP Team.

Early life

Vettel was born on 3 July 1987 in Heppenheim, West Germany, to Norbert and Heike Vettel. He has one younger brother, Fabian, a racing driver, and two older sisters: Melanie, a dental technician, and Stefanie, a physiotherapist for children with disabilities. Vettel suggested in an interview that he was "terrible" at school, but he passed his Abitur at Heppenheim's Starkenburg-Gymnasium [de] with a respectable grade. His childhood heroes were "The three Michaels": Michael Schumacher, Michael Jordan and Michael Jackson. He mentioned that he wanted to be a singer like Jackson, but realised that he did not have the voice. Vettel is also a fan of the Beatles, collecting several records, including Abbey Road and his favourite song being "Drive My Car". In an interview on Top Gear, he stated that he is a fan of British comedy such as Little Britain and Monty Python's Life of Brian.

Junior racing career

Karting

Vettel began karting at the age of three, and began racing in karts series in 1995 at the age of eight. He was accepted into the Red Bull Junior Team in 1998, and won various titles, such as the Junior Monaco Kart Cup in 2001.

Lower formulae

Formula BMW

Vettel was promoted to open-wheel cars in 2003, and was given a chance by Derrick Walker to test a Reynard Motorsport Champ Car in a two-day private test at the Homestead–Miami Speedway. A year later, he won the 2004 Formula BMW ADAC championship with 18 victories from 20 races.

Formula Three and Formula Renault

Vettel drove for ASL Mücke Motorsport in the 2005 Formula 3 Euro Series. He was placed fifth in the final standings with 63 points and won the Rookie Cup. He tested for the Williams Formula One team later that year as a reward for his Formula BMW success. Vettel then went on to test for the BMW Sauber Formula One team.

Vettel driving at a F3 Euroseries demonstration event in 2006

Vettel was promoted to test driver for BMW Sauber in 2006, and participated in the 2006 Formula 3 Euro Series, finishing as runner-up. He also competed in the 2006 Formula Renault 3.5 Series, where he finished first and second at Misano in his first two races. In the next round at Spa-Francorchamps, his finger was almost sliced off by flying debris following an accident, and he was expected to be out for several weeks. Nevertheless, he managed to compete in the 2006 Masters of Formula 3 at Zandvoort the following weekend, where he finished in sixth place.

Vettel competed in the 2007 Formula Renault 3.5 Series, and took his first win at the Nürburgring. He led the championship when he was called up permanently by the BMW Sauber Formula One team.

Formula One career

Vettel on his race debut at the 2007 United States Grand Prix

BMW Sauber (2006–2007)

2006: Test driver

Vettel became BMW Sauber's third driver at the 2006 Turkish Grand Prix, when former incumbent Robert Kubica replaced Jacques Villeneuve as second driver for the 2006 Hungarian Grand Prix. On his testing debut, Vettel set the fastest time in the second Friday free practice. Vettel became the then-youngest Formula One driver to participate in a Grand Prix weekend at 19 years and 53 days. He also set a record for collecting his first fine in nine seconds into his career, as Vettel exceeded the pitlane speed limit on the way to the track. In his second testing session at the 2006 Italian Grand Prix, he set the fastest time in both Friday practice sessions.

2007: Debut

Vettel was confirmed as BMW's test driver for 2007. Following Kubica's crash at the 2007 Canadian Grand Prix, Vettel was named his replacement at the 2007 United States Grand Prix. He started in seventh position and finished in eighth to become the then-youngest driver to score a point in Formula One.

Toro Rosso (2007–2008)

2007–2008: Maiden race win and rise to prominence

Vettel driving for Toro Rosso at the 2008 Canadian Grand Prix

BMW released him in July 2007 to join Red Bull's Scuderia Toro Rosso, replacing Scott Speed from the 2007 Hungarian Grand Prix onwards, as Vettel was already under contract to Red Bull Racing. It was also announced that he would drive for Toro Rosso in 2008 alongside Sébastien Bourdais.

In the rain-affected Japanese Grand Prix at Fuji, Vettel worked his way up to third, behind Lewis Hamilton and Red Bull Racing's Mark Webber, and seemed to be on course for his and the team's maiden podium finish. However, Vettel crashed into Webber under safety car conditions, forcing both cars to retire. Webber said after the race: "It's kids isn't it. Kids with not enough experience – you do a good job and then they fuck it all up". Vettel was initially punished with a ten-place grid penalty for the following race, but this was lifted after a spectator video on YouTube showed the incident may have been caused by Hamilton's behaviour behind the safety car.

Vettel finished a career-best fourth a week later at the Chinese Grand Prix, having started 17th on the grid while in mixed conditions. He was tipped by Red Bull owner Dietrich Mateschitz as one of the sport's big future stars: "Vettel is one of the young guys with extraordinary potential He is fast, he is intelligent, and he is very interested in the technical side."

After four races of the 2008 season, Vettel was the only driver to have failed to finish a single race, having retired on the first lap in three of them. At the Monaco Grand Prix, Vettel scored his first points of the season with a fifth-place finish, after qualifying 17th. Toro Rosso's technical director Giorgio Ascanelli explained that something changed at the European Grand Prix in Valencia: "Suddenly Vettel understood something about how to drive an F1 car quickly. It made a huge difference – not only to the speed he could unlock but also to his ability to do so consistently."

At the wet Italian Grand Prix, Vettel became the youngest driver in history to win a Formula One Grand Prix, aged 21 years and 74 days. He led for the majority of the Grand Prix and crossed the finish line 12.5 seconds ahead of McLaren's Heikki Kovalainen. It would also be Toro Rosso's only win. Earlier in the weekend, he had already become the youngest pole-sitter. Toro Rosso team boss Gerhard Berger said: "As he proved today, he can win races, but he's going to win World Championships. He's a cool guy". His victory led the German media to dub him "Baby Schumi".

Vettel was named 2008 Rookie of the Year at the Autosport Awards.

Red Bull (2009–2014)

2009: Championship contender

Vettel after winning the 2009 Japanese Grand Prix
Vettel driving for Red Bull Racing at the 2010 Bahrain Grand Prix, where he took the first pole position of the season

At the start of the 2009 season, Vettel replaced the retired David Coulthard at Red Bull Racing. He began strongly at the Australian Grand Prix, running in second for the majority of the race. However, a clash with Robert Kubica over second place in the latter stages forced both to retire. He went on to take pole position and the race win at Chinese Grand Prix; Red Bull Racing's maiden pole and win.

Further wins followed in Great Britain, Japan and Abu Dhabi. He won the Japanese Grand Prix from pole position, leading every lap. Vettel won the inaugural Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, the first ever day-night race, to finish second in the World Drivers' Championship standings behind Jenson Button. He also scored his third fastest lap of the year, drawing him level with teammate Mark Webber. However, as Vettel had more second fastest laps, he won the 2009 DHL Fastest Lap Award.

2010: Youngest World Champion

Vettel took the first pole position of the 2010 season at the Bahrain Grand Prix. He led most of the race but as a result of a spark plug failure, Vettel finished in fourth place. At the Australian Grand Prix, Vettel was appointed as a director of the Grand Prix Drivers' Association. He took his first win of the season in Malaysia.

In Monaco, Vettel made it a Red Bull 1–2 with him second and Webber first. Both were equal on points in the standings, with Webber first based on total wins. At the Turkish Grand Prix, Vettel was running second behind Webber when he made a passing move on his teammate. The two collided, putting Vettel out of the race, with neither driver accepting responsibility for the collision.

At the British Grand Prix, both Vettel and Webber's cars were fitted with a new front wing design. Vettel's wing was damaged in the third practice session, and Webber's sole surviving example was removed and given to his teammate. Vettel qualified in first place, but suffered a puncture. He finished seventh while Webber took the victory. In Japan, he qualified on pole ahead of Webber and went on to win with a lights-to-flag victory. Aged 23 years and 98 days, Vettel became the youngest Grand Prix driver to win at the same track on two occasions. At the inaugural Korean Grand Prix, Vettel led the first 45 laps before retiring with engine failure, handing victory to championship rival Fernando Alonso.

With the 1–2 finish at the Brazilian Grand Prix, Vettel and Webber secured Red Bull Racing's first World Constructors' Championship. Vettel went into the final race of the season in Abu Dhabi with a 15-point deficit to Alonso and a 7-point gap to Webber. He won the Grand Prix from pole to become the youngest World Drivers' Champion in the sport's history, as Alonso only finished in seventh place. Following John Surtees in the 1964 season and James Hunt in 1976, this was the third time in Formula One history that the title winner had not topped the championship table until after the last race.

2011: Dominant second title

Vettel's win at the 2011 Monaco Grand Prix was his first win in the principality, and his fifth from the first six races of the 2011 season.
Vettel at the 2011 Japanese Grand Prix where, with four races remaining in the season, he became the youngest double World Drivers' Champion
Vettel at the 2012 United States Grand Prix

Vettel started the 2011 season with wins in Australia and Malaysia, before a second-place finish at the Chinese Grand Prix due to poor tyre management, possibly related to his inability to properly communicate with his team, as his radio was broken. In Monaco, Vettel led the race but due to another radio malfunction, the Red Bull pit crew was not prepared when he came in. The pit stop was slow and he was sent out on the wrong tyres, handing the lead to Button. Vettel switched to a one-stop strategy and stuck with one set of soft tyres for 56 laps. He was caught by Alonso and Button as his tyres deteriorated, but neither were able to pass him. The race was red-flagged with few laps remaining, which allowed teams to change their tyres; when the race was restarted under the safety car, Vettel was able to retain the lead and win.

At the European Grand Prix, the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) enforced a ban on engine mappings. It was believed by some in the press that this was an attempt by the FIA to thwart Vettel's early domination. Nevertheless, he took pole with the fastest qualifying lap in Valencia Street Circuit's history. Vettel dominated with his first hat-trick of 2011, and won his sixth race out of eight. The FIA implemented another rule change at the British Grand Prix, targeting the blown diffusers. Red Bull believed the changes would cost them about half a second per lap. During the race, Vettel held off Webber for second place, who ignored a radio message from team principal Christian Horner to hold position. It was only the second time in the sport's history that a driver had finished second or higher in each of the first nine races of a season and won at least six of them.

Vettel's run of fourteen successive front-row starts and eleven successive top two finishes ended at his home race, where he qualified third and finished fourth. In Italy, he took his tenth pole position of the year, in which he joined Ayrton Senna as the only driver to have taken ten pole positions in two separate seasons. A podium finish in Japan secured his second successive title with four races remaining, making him the youngest ever double and back-to-back champion. Vettel won the following race in Korea to become the second driver to take at least ten wins in a season after Michael Schumacher. He also helped to secure Red Bull's second successive World Constructors' Championship. Vettel took his eleventh victory of the season in the inaugural Indian Grand Prix, leading every lap from pole position, as well as setting the race's fastest lap to claim his first grand slam. Vettel broke the record for the most pole positions in a season at the season finale in Brazil, after he clinched his 15th pole of the year. He completed the year with 15 poles, 11 victories, and 17 podiums from 19 races; Vettel also earned a record total of 392 points.

2012: Triple World Champion

Vettel started the 2012 season with a second place at the Australian Grand Prix, before he finished outside the points in Malaysia following a collision with backmarker Narain Karthikeyan. Vettel and Horner criticised Karthikeyan's driving, with Vettel calling him an "idiot", and a "cucumber". Karthikeyan hit back, calling Vettel a "cry baby". Vettel crossed the line in first place at the Bahrain Grand Prix to go top of the championship standings. Three races without a podium place followed, before he retired at the European Grand Prix after an alternator failure, dropping him to fourth in the standings. In Germany, Vettel finished second behind Alonso but received a 20-second time penalty after the race, as he was off the track when he overtook Button; Vettel dropped back to fifth. He started in 10th place but finished second in Belgium to climb up to second place in the championship. Vettel then retired at the Italian Grand Prix due to an alternator failure, which saw the gap to leader Alonso grow to 39 points with seven races remaining. He won next race in Singapore, as he kept the lead until the 2-hour race limit was reached. At the Japanese Grand Prix he took his second career grand slam and coupled with Alonso's retirement, he cut the gap down to just four points. After winning at the Korean Grand Prix, the Indian Grand Prix brought another victory, as Vettel topped all three practice sessions before taking pole position and leading every lap of the race to win.

During qualifying at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, Vettel was told to stop the car due to a fuel pump issue; he was forced to start from the pit lane. From last place, Vettel fought his way back to finish in third place. He started the last race in Brazil with a 13-point cushion against Alonso. On the opening lap, Vettel spun after an incident with Bruno Senna. Following changing weather conditions, Vettel climbed up to finish in sixth place to win the championship by three points and to become the youngest ever triple world champion. He also became the third driver to acquire three consecutive championships, after Juan Manuel Fangio and Schumacher.

2013–2014: Record-breaking season and departure from Red Bull

Vettel (left) controversially passing teammate Mark Webber at the 2013 Malaysian Grand Prix, despite team orders to maintain position

Vettel started the first two races of the 2013 season on pole position, and at the Malaysian Grand Prix, he lapped over 2.5 seconds faster than teammate Webber in qualifying during a wet session. He won the race, though not without controversy. Vettel ignored the team orders and passed Webber for the lead. Webber was furious after the race and said that Vettel "will have protection as usual and that's the way it goes". Team principal Horner, although unhappy with Vettel's actions, pointed out that Webber had defied team orders on several previous occasions. He acknowledged that the already fragile relationship between the two drivers had further broken down as a result of the incident. Vettel claimed that he was not sorry for winning and that if the situation presented itself again, he would have passed Webber despite the order, adding that he felt Webber did not deserve to win the race.

Following wins in Bahrain and Canada, his championship lead was cut at the British Grand Prix as he was denied a likely win due to gearbox failure. Vettel bounced back to win his home race in Germany for the first time. After he finished third in Hungary, Vettel won the last nine races of the season, including grand slams in Singapore and Korea. Vettel set the then-record for most consecutive race wins with nine and he became only the third man after Alberto Ascari and Jim Clark to take consecutive grand slams. He sealed his fourth world title at the Indian Grand Prix; before the race weekend, Formula One CEO Bernie Ecclestone stated that Vettel was "probably the best we've ever had".

"It's very difficult for me personally, to receive boos, even though you haven't done anything wrong."

Sebastian Vettel, on being booed on the podium.

On several occasions during the season, spectators booed Vettel. The booing was widely condemned by fellow drivers, the media and others in the paddock, and Vettel later revealed that it had a negative impact on him.

For the 2014 season and beyond, drivers picked a unique car number to use for the remainder of their Formula One career; Vettel chose the number five. However, as reigning World Drivers' Champion, he carried number one throughout the season. Webber left the sport and was replaced by Daniel Ricciardo, who was promoted from Toro Rosso.

Vettel struggled with reliability issues throughout winter testing, which forced him to retire at the opening Australian Grand Prix. Reliability problems also forced Vettel to retire at the Monaco and Austrian Grands Prix. Vettel qualified on the front-row for the races in Malaysia, Great Britain and Hungary, and finished on the podium in Malaysia, Canada, Singapore and Japan. After the Russian Grand Prix, he had been outqualified by a teammate over a season for the first time in his Formula One career. In addition to suffering reliability problems, throughout 2014 Vettel struggled to get to grips with the Red Bull RB10, and the Pirelli tyres. He signed off the year by becoming the first defending champion to fail to win a race during a season since Jacques Villeneuve in 1998.

In October, Red Bull had announced that Vettel would be leaving the team at the end of the season to join Scuderia Ferrari, one year before his contract was due to expire. Vettel replaced Alonso and partnered his friend Kimi Räikkönen. Vettel mentioned he would like to drive for Ferrari at some point in his career and was already rumoured in 2012 to have a non-binding pre-contract, with options, to join them in 2014. He was denied an early release from his Red Bull contract to test the 2014 Ferrari car in Abu Dhabi. In spite of this, Vettel was present at the Ferrari test – although not driving the car – but Red Bull did not enforce any sanctions. Vettel instead made his first appearance in November, completing nearly 100 laps in the 2012 car around the test track of Fiorano.

Ferrari (2015–2020)

The next stage of my Formula 1 career will be spent with Scuderia Ferrari and for me that means the dream of a lifetime has come true. When I was a kid, Michael Schumacher in the red car was my greatest idol and now it's an incredible honour to finally get the chance to drive a Ferrari. I already got a small taste of what the Ferrari spirit means, when I took my first win at Monza in 2008, with an engine from the Prancing Horse built in Maranello. The Scuderia has a great tradition in this sport and I am extremely motivated to help the team get back to the top. I will put my heart and soul into making it happen.

Sebastian Vettel, on his lifelong dream of driving for Ferrari

2015–2016: Returning to the top step

Vettel at the 2015 Malaysian Grand Prix, where he took his maiden win for Ferrari

Vettel made his Ferrari debut by finishing third in the Australian Grand Prix. He followed that up with winning the Malaysian Grand Prix, his first race victory for over a year and the first win for Ferrari for almost two years. After the race, an emotional Vettel paid tribute to Schumacher, saying that his hero's achievements with Ferrari made the first win all the more special.

He won the Hungarian Grand Prix to remain a championship contender after he started from third on the grid. He dedicated his victory to the driver Jules Bianchi, who died the week prior from injuries sustained in 2014. At the halfway point of the season, Vettel was 42 points behind championship leader and Mercedes driver Hamilton. Vettel was in third place in Belgium when his right rear blew at high speed on the penultimate lap, likely ending any title chances given Hamilton's win. After the race, he ranted about the 'unacceptable' and 'unsafe' Pirelli tyres that could have caused him serious injury.

Vettel came home second in the Italian Grand Prix, his first race with Ferrari at the team's home soil. He then took his first pole with the team at the Singapore Grand Prix, Ferrari's first pole for three years. Vettel went on to win the race, and with Hamilton retiring, he closed to within 49 points with seven races remaining. Vettel ended the season in third place, however, with three wins and 13 podiums; he declared the season as a 'miracle'.

After a third-place finish at the 2016 Australian Grand Prix, Vettel's participation in Bahrain ended without starting as his car broke down on the formation lap. At the Chinese Grand Prix, Vettel collided with teammate Räikkönen on the first lap, but both were able to continue. He blamed Red Bull driver Daniil Kvyat for the collision, labelling him a "madman" and described his overtaking manoeuvre as "suicidal". At the Russian Grand Prix, Vettel retired on the first lap after two consecutive collisions with Kvyat. At the Mexican Grand Prix, Vettel attempted to overtake Red Bull driver Max Verstappen, but after Verstappen ran off the track and rejoined ahead of him, Vettel verbally attacked him and race director Charlie Whiting, for which he later apologised. Vettel then blocked Red Bull's Ricciardo by moving in the braking zone, and was given a ten-second penalty and two points on his licence. Although he achieved seven podium finishes during the season, Vettel did not win any races in 2016.

2017–2018: Title battles versus Hamilton

Vettel during pre-season testing for Ferrari in 2017

His third season at Ferrari started with victory in Australia, his first in 18 months. The early form continued the following races, winning in Bahrain and Monaco, and finishing second in China, Russia and Spain. In Russia, Vettel took his first pole position in 18 months and with Räikkönen alongside him, Ferrari had their first front row lock out since the 2008 French Grand Prix. Vettel's lead at the top of the standings increased to 25 points after the Monaco Grand Prix, Ferrari's first victory at the circuit since Schumacher won there in 2001.

In Azerbaijan, Vettel collided into the rear of race leader Hamilton under the safety car, accusing Hamilton of brake testing him. Moments later, Vettel pulled alongside and hit his Mercedes as they prepared for a restart, for which he received a ten-second stop-go penalty. The FIA investigated the Vettel-Hamilton incident further, but Vettel received no punishment. Vettel took full responsibility, issuing a public apology and committing to devote personal time over the next 12 months to educational activities across a variety of FIA championships and events.

Vettel at the 2017 Malaysian Grand Prix

Vettel's championship lead was cut to only a single point in Great Britain, as he suffered a puncture on the penultimate lap and dropped to seventh place. Vettel started from pole in Hungary and maintained the lead. He overcame steering issues and held on for victory, which gave him a 14-point lead over Hamilton. Mercedes dominated after the summer break and Vettel lost the championship lead at the Italian Grand Prix, which was followed by a first-lap retirement in Singapore after collision with Räikkönen and Verstappen. It was the first time in Formula One history that both Ferraris retired from the first lap of a Grand Prix. His title hopes were dealt another blow in Malaysia, as he started last following a turbo problem in qualifying. He finished in fourth place, but crashed with Williams' Lance Stroll on the cool-down lap; neither would be penalised. More reliability issues befell Ferrari in Japan as Vettel retired due to a spark plug failure. In Mexico, Vettel became the fourth driver in Formula One history to claim 50 pole positions. Verstappen took the lead from Vettel at the start, before Vettel collided with Hamilton, after which Hamilton won his fourth title. For the first time in his career, Vettel failed to win the World Drivers' Championship having led it at some stage during a season.

Vettel driving past his fans at the 2018 Chinese Grand Prix

The 2018 season was dubbed the "Fight For Five" by the media, as for the first time in Formula One history, two quadruple world champions lined up at the start of a season. For the second consecutive year, Vettel began the season with victory in Australia, after he took the lead while pitting under the virtual safety car. It was his 100th podium, while he also became only the third man in Formula One history to have led 3,000 laps. In Bahrain, Vettel maintained the lead from pole through the first round of pit stops and held off Mercedes' Valtteri Bottas despite being on old soft tyres to take a fourth victory at the circuit. At the Chinese Grand Prix, he was hit by Verstappen in the latter stages of the race, which caused both to spin. Vettel limped home in eighth place, with his championship lead reduced to nine points. For the first time since 2013, Vettel took three consecutive pole positions as he qualified in first place in Azerbaijan. It was the 23rd different Grand Prix at which he had taken pole position, equalling Hamilton's then-record.

At the Canadian Grand Prix, Vettel won for the third time in 2018 and for the 50th time in his career, becoming only the fourth man to reach a half-century of wins. The following race in France, Vettel lost the championship lead following a collision with Bottas. He bounced back in Great Britain, after he passed Bottas in the last laps to take victory. Vettel led his home race until he slid off the track and hit the wall in the latter stages as rain started to fall, as he had clipped the sausage curb a few laps before, breaking a part of his front wing, causing understeer and loss of downforce; he won in Belgium, however, in which he passed Hamilton for the race victory. Contact on the opening lap with Hamilton in Italy saw Vettel damage his front wing and drop to the back of the field, but he recovered to cross the finishing line in fourth place. It left Vettel 30 points behind the Mercedes driver with seven races left. His championship hopes were dealt a further blow as Ferrari's upgrades introduced at the Singapore Grand Prix proved to be unsuccessful, making a step backwards on car development; Ferrari suffered a dip of form until the United States Grand Prix, where they reverted to their old package and successfully rediscovered their form. Vettel claimed his first ever podium in Mexico but the World Drivers' Championship went to Hamilton for a second consecutive year. Although Mercedes had been the more consistent and better team, fans and pundits criticised Vettel for making too many mistakes during the season.

2019–2020: Decline and departure from Ferrari

After showing impressive pace throughout pre-season testing in Barcelona, Vettel and his new teammate Charles Leclerc headed to Australia with many pundits believing they had the car to beat for the 2019 season. The opening weekend proved to be difficult, however, as Vettel qualified some seven tenths off pole position in third and finished the race in fourth place. Third-place finishes in China and Azerbaijan followed, as Mercedes continued to dominate. Vettel took pole position in Canada; his first pole in 17 races. Midway through the race, a snap of oversteer caused him to run wide onto the grass. Vettel received a five-second time penalty from the stewards, who believed he had returned to the track "in an unsafe manner and forced off track". Vettel crossed the line in first place but lost his victory as a result of the penalty. After the race, he swapped the number one and two signs in front of Hamilton's Mercedes and the empty spot that was supposed for his own car, as Vettel parked his car at the start of the pit entry. At the German Grand Prix, Vettel was unable to qualify after a turbo issue, which meant he would start in last place. During a race with mixed weather conditions, Vettel climbed up to second place.

Vettel driving the SF90 at the 2019 Hungarian Grand Prix

In Italy, Vettel spun at the Ascari chicane and when he re-entered the track, he made contact with Racing Point's Stroll. Vettel received a 10-second stop-go penalty and finished in 13th place. At the Singapore Grand Prix, Vettel won on a circuit Ferrari were expected to struggle at. For the first time, Vettel had won five times at the same track. The following race, in Russia, Vettel went from third place on the grid to first place in the first corner. However, radio transmissions suggested that the team wanted to swap their drivers, but with Vettel the quicker driver, he remained in front. Vettel retired soon after with a MGU-K problem.

Vettel took pole position in Japan, but an abrupt start off the line caused him to momentarily stop before getting away, which allowed Bottas to take the lead; Vettel was not penalized for his jump start. After running in third at the Brazilian Grand Prix for the majority of the race, a safety car allowed Red Bull's Alexander Albon and an aggressive Leclerc to overtake him. He tried to pass his teammate immediately but the two Ferraris collided, resulting in another retirement for Vettel. He finished fifth in the World Drivers' Championship, and was outscored by a teammate for only the second time across a season.

Sebastian Vettel competing for Ferrari on their 1000th Grand Prix

Ferrari later announced they would not extend Vettel's contract beyond the 2020 season. Team principal Mattia Binotto explained there was "no specific reason" for the decision, though both parties noted it was an amicable agreement. The season was disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic as the first ten races of the original calendar were either rescheduled, postponed or cancelled altogether. Ferrari discovered problems on their car following pre-season testing, forcing them to make a major redesign.

The SF1000 lacked pace as Vettel finished the season's opening race in Austria in 10th place. During the weekend, he was also given a warning for breaching the FIA's COVID-19 protocols after he was seen mixing with members of his former team Red Bull. The following race, at the Styrian Grand Prix, Vettel retired on the opening lap with rear wing damage following a collision with Leclerc. He ended the season in a disappointing 13th place in the Drivers' standings, with a third place in Turkey as his best result. Ferrari only finished sixth in the Constructors' standings, their worst result since 1980, while Vettel's total of 33 points was the lowest in a full campaign in his Formula One career.

Aston Martin (2021–2022)

Vettel at the 2021 British Grand Prix

Vettel joined Aston Martin for the 2021 season, replacing Sergio Pérez. In his debut race weekend in Bahrain, he received a grid penalty in qualifying, forcing him to start last. While Vettel started well, he had a collision with Esteban Ocon, giving him a time penalty and ended up finishing in 15th place. He received five penalty points on his superlicence. Aston Martin team principal Otmar Szafnauer reported no concerns, owing to this being a very different car from the Ferrari, lack of laps in pre-season testing and a very impressive race start. In the fifth race of the season, Vettel scored his first points for the team with a fifth-place finish in Monaco. At the following race, the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, he claimed Aston Martin's first podium with a second-place finish. Vettel also finished second in Hungary, but was later disqualified, after his car failed to provide the one litre sample of fuel required. He ended the season in 12th place in the Drivers' standings, ahead of teammate Stroll. During the season, Vettel made 132 overtakes—the most of any driver—and won the inaugural Overtake Award.

Vettel missed the first two races of the 2022 season in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia after testing positive for COVID-19; he was substituted by Aston Martin's reserve driver Nico Hülkenberg. In July 2022, Vettel announced his retirement from Formula One at the end of the 2022 season.

Driver profile

Comparison to Michael Schumacher

Vettel and Michael Schumacher after the 2011 Japanese Grand Prix, where Vettel won his second World Championship title

Vettel's unexpected win at the 2008 Italian Grand Prix led the media to dub him the "Baby Schumi". He was not just dubbed this for his nationality but also because of his driving style, his concentration and the hands-on role he plays behind the scenes with his team of engineers. Vettel played down the comparison stating he wanted to be the "New Vettel".

Nevertheless, the similarities were marked. Like Schumacher, Vettel grew up in a small town with an everyday background—Schumacher's father is a bricklayer and Vettel's is a carpenter. Both had their first taste of racing at the Kerpen karting track near Cologne, not far from the Nürburgring. Vettel began driving in his garden lapping the garden many times before he could legally take to the roads, and said his passion for cars was nurtured by watching Schumacher compete.

After winning his first championship in 2010, and being hailed as the "Next Schumacher", Vettel stated he did not want to aim for Schumacher's record after learning how hard it was to get one championship under his belt, though he would like to win more. In 2011, Pirelli director Paul Hembery was impressed when Vettel was the only driver to take the time to visit the factory and talk to the tyre manufacturer to gain a better insight. "The only other driver that asks us a lot of questions is Michael Schumacher. It is like seeing the master and the protégé at work."

After Schumacher was severely injured in a skiing accident in late 2013, Vettel was on hand to collect the Millennium-Bambi Award for Schumacher's life achievements on his behalf in 2014. In 2014, Vettel cited Schumacher as one of his inspirations in becoming a Scuderia Ferrari driver: "When I was a kid, Michael Schumacher in the red car was my greatest idol and now it's an incredible honour to finally get the chance to drive a Ferrari."

Helmet

2017 helmet design

From his karting days, Vettel worked with helmet designer Jens Munser. At the age of eight, Vettel wanted Sebastian the crab from The Little Mermaid on his helmet. Vettel's original helmet in Formula One, like most Red Bull-backed drivers, was heavily influenced by the energy drink company logo. New to Vettel's helmet at the start of 2008 was the incorporation of the red cross shape of the Kreis Bergstraße coat of arms on the front, just underneath the visor, in honour of the region of his birthplace, Heppenheim.

After switching to Red Bull in 2009, Vettel regularly used a variety of new helmet designs. Some designs were small changes to his original Red Bull design, while others were completely new designs, such as the one he used at the 2010 Japanese Grand Prix: Vettel had a special white-red helmet design, with black kanji and hiragana for "gives you wings". Several of his helmet designs also featured his team members. At the 2012 Italian Grand Prix, Vettel celebrated his 50th helmet design with a 'rusty' matte look and 50 tallies, indicating his 50 helmet designs in Formula One. Vettel started his 2013 campaign with a design in honour of Felix Baumgartner, for his world record Red Bull Stratos space jump in October 2012. By the end of the 2013 season, he had used 76 different helmet designs throughout his career.

For the 2017 Italian Grand Prix he changed the German flag stripe on his helmet to an Italian flag stripe in celebration of Ferrari's home race. Following the death of Niki Lauda, Vettel wore a special helmet based on Lauda's final Ferrari helmet at the 2019 Monaco Grand Prix. Vettel carried the German flag stripe design over to his helmet designs during his time at Aston Martin, with his final design for the 2022 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix nicknamed "The Final Lap".

Car names

Sebastian Vettel driving the Red Bull RB6: "Luscious Liz" and "Randy Mandy" (2010)Sebastian Vettel driving the Red Bull RB7: "Kinky Kylie" (2011)Sebastian Vettel driving the Red Bull RB8: "Abbey" (2012)Sebastian Vettel driving the Red Bull RB9: "Hungry Heidi" (2013)Vettel's four championship-winning cars from top-to-bottom: Luscious Liz and Randy Mandy (2010), Kinky Kylie (2011), Abbey (2012) and Hungry Heidi (2013)

Inspired by American bomber pilots during World War II, Vettel made it a tradition to name each of his cars in Formula One from 2008 to 2021, stating "it's important to have a close relationship with a car. Like a ship, a car should be named after a girl as it's sexy".

The car Vettel drove during his first full season in 2008—the Toro Rosso STR3—was named Julie, with which he took his maiden victory at the Italian Grand Prix. Upon moving to Red Bull in 2009, he initially named the RB5 Kate, but renamed it to Kate's Dirty Sister following his collision with Robert Kubica at the season-opening Australian Grand Prix. The RB6 in 2010 was Vettel's first championship-winning car, at first called Luscious Liz before a chassis change saw its renaming to Randy Mandy from the Turkish Grand Prix onwards. Vettel's further three consecutive championship-winning machines were named Kinky Kylie (2011), Abbey (2012) and Hungry Heidi (2013), the latter of which saw Vettel equal Michael Schumacher's single-season win record from 2004, and win a then-record nine consecutive races. 2014's RB10 was named Suzie, the only car he did not win with at Red Bull.

Vettel continued this tradition with Ferrari, naming the SF15-T Eva in 2015. His subsequent Ferrari challengers were named Margherita (2016), Gina (2017), Loria (2018), Lina (2019) and Lucilla (2020). In 2021, Vettel named his Aston Martin AMR21 after Honey Ryder, the love interest from the James Bond film Dr. No (1962), in a nod to Aston Martin's longstanding relationship with the franchise. Amidst struggles with car performance in 2022, Vettel said he would wait for upgrades to the AMR22 before naming it; no name for the AMR22 was ever publicised, ending Vettel's 14-year tradition.

Season Constructor Chassis Name(s) Wins
2008 Toro Rosso STR3 Julie 1
2009 Red Bull RB5 Kate
Kate's Dirty Sister 		4
2010 RB6 Luscious Liz
Randy Mandy 		5
2011 RB7 Kinky Kylie 11
2012 RB8 Abbey 5
2013 RB9 Hungry Heidi 13
2014 RB10 Suzie 0
2015 Ferrari SF15-T Eva 3
2016 SF16-H Margherita 0
2017 SF70H Gina 5
2018 SF71H Loria 5
2019 SF90 Lina 1
2020 SF1000 Lucilla 0
2021 Aston Martin AMR21 Honey Ryder 0

Awards and honours

Vettel was named Rookie of the Year at the 2008 Autosport Awards. In 2009, Vettel was awarded the Lorenzo Bandini Trophy, for his achievements in the 2008 season. He was also awarded the 2009 British Racing Drivers' Club Johnny Wakefield Trophy for "setting the fastest race lap of the season on the Silverstone Grand Prix Circuit". In 2010, Vettel was voted German Sportspersonality of the Year and won the Autosport International Racing Driver Award, which he also won in the following three years. In January 2012, Vettel was honoured with the Grands Prix de l'Academie des Sports, and in February, he was further honoured with the Silbernes Lorbeerblatt, in recognition of his world titles and his "exemplary character". Vettel was voted Formula One driver of the year in 2009, 2011 and 2013 by the team principals, initiated by the Autosport magazine. He additionally won the DHL Fastest Lap Award in 2009, 2012 and 2013. He was named European Sportsperson of the Year by the International Sports Press Association in 2010, and by the Polish Press Agency in 2012 and 2013. Furthermore, Vettel was named the BBC Overseas Sports Personality of the Year in 2013. He was named Sportsman of the Year at the 2014 Laureus World Sports Awards. In 2015, he received the Confartigianato Motori Award for Driver of the Year. After retiring from Formula One in 2022, Vettel received the Autosport Gregor Grant Award for his "achievement in motorsport".

Red Bull Racing sponsor Infiniti released a Sebastian Vettel edition of the Infiniti FX SUV for 2012. It featured increased engine power, revised bodywork and lower suspension than the standard model.

Race of Champions

Sebastian Vettel at the 2007 Race of Champions

Vettel competed in the 2007 Race of Champions at Wembley Stadium, representing the German team alongside Michael Schumacher, winning the Nations' Cup title. He also teamed up with Schumacher from 2008 to 2012, winning the Cup on every occasion.

Vettel returned to the 2015 Race of Champions, representing Germany together with Nico Hülkenberg. He won his first individual Race of Champions title that year, beating Tom Kristensen in the final. Vettel and Hülkenberg finished runner-up in the Nations Cup. In 2017, Vettel was eliminated in the first heat for the individual competition, but went on to win the Nations' Cup for Germany by himself with his seventh victory, after his teammate Pascal Wehrlein was injured earlier in a crash.

In the 2019 event, Vettel teamed up with Mick Schumacher, where they finished runners-up in the Nations' Cup to the Nordic team of Kristensen and Johan Kristoffersson. Vettel was eliminated in the group stages of the individual competition, although he won the ROC Skills Challenge. He reached the individual final in 2022 but was beaten by Sébastien Loeb.

Other ventures

Activism

Vettel has demonstrated an interest in the environment and other social justice issues. Following the 2021 British Grand Prix, he helped remove litter from the stands, and he also worked with children in Austria to build a hotel for bees. A second bee hotel would be erected at the Suzuka International Racing Course ahead of the 2023 Japanese Grand Prix. Furthermore, Vettel has been critical of how F1 races are scheduled, stating that races that are geographically proximate to each other should be held on consecutive weekends to reduce emissions from travelling. He also held an all-women karting event during the weekend of the 2021 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, and wore the pride flag at the 2021 Hungarian Grand Prix despite being reprimanded. Following the 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine, Vettel expressed an intent to boycott the September's Russian Grand Prix had the race gone ahead as planned.

In May 2022, Vettel appeared on the BBC One political topical debate programme Question Time to discuss a variety of issues including climate change, energy dependency, and Brexit. The following month, Vettel appeared on the cover of Attitude, voicing support for an LGBTQ driver competing in Formula One. In June 2022, while participating in the Canadian Grand Prix, Vettel denounced Canada's mining of the Alberta oil sands by wearing a T-shirt and helmet patch calling it "Canada's climate crime". Alberta Premier Jason Kenney called it "over-the-top hypocrisy" because Vettel's team, Aston Martin, is sponsored by petroleum company Saudi Aramco, which he said has "one of the worst climate-emissions records in the world". Vettel agreed with the "hypocritical" label but said those personal attacks risk missing what he called the "bigger picture" of the climate crisis.

SailGP

On 31 May 2023, Vettel announced his involvement with the Germany SailGP Team, as co-owner of the team alongside Thomas Riedel.

Personal life

Vettel in 2022

Vettel lives in Thurgovia, Switzerland, amongst other racing drivers. Vettel has described himself as competitive, private and impatient. He also appeared in advertisements for Head & Shoulders, and provided the voice of character Sebastian Schnell in the German dub of the 2011 film Cars 2, and a voice command assistant in the German and Italian dubs of the 2017 film Cars 3. Vettel is a fan of German football team Eintracht Frankfurt.

Vettel married childhood friend Hanna Prater at a private ceremony in early 2019; they have three children. In 2016, Forbes estimated that his annual income was $41 million. Kimi Räikkönen, his teammate from 2015 to 2018, is a close friend. Besides his native German, Vettel speaks English, French, and Italian. In July 2022, he created his Instagram account, having long eschewed social media. Vettel's first Instagram post was to announce his retirement from Formula One at the end of the 2022 season.

Karting record

Karting career summary

Season Series Team Position
1997 DMV Goldpokal — Bambini B KSN 7th
DMV Bundesmeisterschaft — Bambini B 1st
DMV Landesmeisterschaft Süd — Bambini B 1st
NRW Cup — Bambini B 1st
1998 DMV Winterpokal — Cadet and Bambini KSN 4th
NRW Cup — Bambini A 1st
DMV Landesmeisterschaft Süd — Bambini A 1st
1999 Torneo Industrie Open — 100 Junior 3rd
2000 Trofeo Andrea Margutti — 100 Junior 7th
Green Helmet Trophy — Cadet 7th
German Karting Championship — Junior 5th
Monaco Kart Cup — ICA Junior 22nd
2001 South Garda Winter Cup — ICA Junior 3rd
Trofeo Andrea Margutti — ICA Junior KSN Racing 22nd
European Championship — ICA Junior 1st
German Karting Championship — Junior 1st
Monaco Kart Cup — ICA Junior 1st
2002 European Championship — ICA KSN Official Racing Team 6th
German Karting Championship — Senior 10th
Source:

Racing record

Racing career summary

Season Series Team Races Wins Poles F/Laps Podiums Points Position
2003 Formula BMW ADAC Eifelland Racing 19 5 5 4 12 216 2nd
2004 Formula BMW ADAC ADAC Berlin-Brandenburg 20 18 14 13 20 387 1st
2005 Formula 3 Euro Series ASL Mücke Motorsport 20 0 0 1 6 63 5th
Masters of Formula 3 1 0 0 0 0 N/A 11th
Spanish Formula 3 Championship Racing Engineering 1 0 0 0 1 8 15th
Macau Grand Prix ASM F3 1 0 0 0 1 N/A 3rd
2006 Formula 3 Euro Series ASM Formule 3 20 4 1 5 9 75 2nd
Masters of Formula 3 1 0 0 0 0 N/A 6th
Formula Renault 3.5 Series Carlin Motorsport 3 1 1 0 2 28 15th
Macau Grand Prix 1 0 0 0 0 N/A 23rd
2007 Formula Renault 3.5 Series Carlin Motorsport 7 1 1 1 4 74 5th
Formula One BMW Sauber F1 Team 1 0 0 0 0 6 14th
Scuderia Toro Rosso 7 0 0 0 0
2008 Formula One Scuderia Toro Rosso 18 1 1 0 1 35 8th
2009 Formula One Red Bull Racing 17 4 4 3 8 84 2nd
2010 Formula One Red Bull Racing 19 5 10 3 10 256 1st
2011 Formula One Red Bull Racing 19 11 15 3 17 392 1st
2012 Formula One Red Bull Racing 20 5 6 6 10 281 1st
2013 Formula One Infiniti Red Bull Racing 19 13 9 7 16 397 1st
2014 Formula One Infiniti Red Bull Racing 19 0 0 2 4 167 5th
2015 Formula One Scuderia Ferrari 19 3 1 1 13 278 3rd
2016 Formula One Scuderia Ferrari 21 0 0 3 7 212 4th
2017 Formula One Scuderia Ferrari 20 5 4 5 13 317 2nd
2018 Formula One Scuderia Ferrari 21 5 5 3 12 320 2nd
2019 Formula One Scuderia Ferrari Mission Winnow 21 1 2 2 9 240 5th
2020 Formula One Scuderia Ferrari Mission Winnow 17 0 0 0 1 33 13th
2021 Formula One Aston Martin Cognizant F1 Team 22 0 0 0 1 43 12th
2022 Formula One Aston Martin Aramco Cognizant F1 Team 20 0 0 0 0 37 12th
Source:

Complete Formula BMW ADAC results

(key) (Races in bold indicate pole position, races in italics indicate fastest lap)

Year Team 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 DC Points
2003 Eifelland Racing HOC1
1
Ret 		HOC1
2
2 		ADR
1
1 		ADR
2
1 		NÜR1
1
3 		NÜR1
2
2 		LAU
1
6 		LAU
2
7 		NOR
1
Ret 		NOR
2
1 		NÜR2
1
10 		NÜR2
2
2 		NÜR3
1
1 		NÜR3
2
2 		A1R
1
6 		A1R
2
8 		ZAN
1
DNS 		ZAN
2
3 		HOC2
1
3 		HOC2
2
1 		2nd 216
2004 ADAC Berlin-Brandenburg e.V. HOC1
1
1 		HOC1
2
1 		ADR
1
2 		ADR
2
1 		NÜR1
1
1 		NÜR1
2
3 		LAU
1
1 		LAU
2
1 		NOR
1
1 		NOR
2
1 		NÜR2
1
1 		NÜR2
2
1 		OSC
1
1 		OSC
2
1 		ZAN
1
1 		ZAN
2
1 		BRN
1
1 		BRN
2
1 		HOC2
1
1 		HOC2
2
1 		1st 387
Source:

Complete Formula 3 Euro Series results

(key) (Races in bold indicate pole position, races in italics indicate fastest lap)

Year Entrant Chassis Engine 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 DC Points
2005 ASL Mücke Motorsport Dallara F305/011 Mercedes HOC
1
15 		HOC
2
5 		PAU
1
7 		PAU
2
11 		SPA
1
DSQ 		SPA
2
13 		MON
1
18 		MON
2
17 		OSC
1
5 		OSC
2
5 		NOR
1
2 		NOR
2
4 		NÜR
1
11 		NÜR
2
2 		ZAN
1
2 		ZAN
2
2 		LAU
1
3 		LAU
2
15 		HOC
1
13 		HOC
2
3 		5th 57
2006 ASM Formule 3 Dallara F305/059 Mercedes HOC
1
5 		HOC
2
1 		LAU
1
3 		LAU
2
6 		OSC
1
5 		OSC
2
14 		BRH
1
2 		BRH
2
7 		NOR
1
2 		NOR
2
Ret 		NÜR
1
1 		NÜR
2
1 		ZAN
1
24 		ZAN
2
2 		CAT
1
1 		CAT
2
Ret 		LMS
1
9 		LMS
2
9 		HOC
1
3 		HOC
2
12 		2nd 75
Source:

Complete Formula Renault 3.5 Series results

(key) (Races in bold indicate pole position, races in italics indicate fastest lap)

Year Entrant 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 DC Points
2006 Carlin Motorsport ZOL
1 		ZOL
2 		MON
1 		IST
1 		IST
2 		MIS
1
2 		MIS
2
1 		SPA
1
Ret 		SPA
2
DNS 		NÜR
1 		NÜR
2 		DON
1 		DON
2 		LMS
1 		LMS
2 		CAT
1 		CAT
2 		15th 28
2007 Carlin Motorsport MNZ
1
5 		MNZ
2
3 		NÜR
1
1 		NÜR
2
6 		MON
1
2 		HUN
1
4 		HUN
2
3 		SPA
1 		SPA
2 		DON
1 		DON
2 		MAG
1 		MAG
2 		EST
1 		EST
2 		CAT
1 		CAT
2 		5th 74
Source:

Complete Formula One results

(key) (Races in bold indicate pole position; races in italics indicate fastest lap)

Year Entrant Chassis Engine 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 WDC Points
2006 BMW Sauber F1 Team BMW Sauber F1.06 BMW P86 2.4 V8 BHR MAL AUS SMR EUR ESP MON GBR CAN USA FRA GER HUN TUR
TD 		ITA
TD 		CHN
TD 		JPN
TD 		BRA
TD 		 –  –
2007 BMW Sauber F1 Team BMW Sauber F1.07 BMW P86/7 2.4 V8 AUS
TD 		MAL
TD 		BHR ESP MON CAN USA
8 		FRA GBR EUR 14th 6
Scuderia Toro Rosso Toro Rosso STR2 Ferrari 056 2.4 V8 HUN
16 		TUR
19 		ITA
18 		BEL
Ret 		JPN
Ret 		CHN
4 		BRA
Ret
2008 Scuderia Toro Rosso Toro Rosso STR2B Ferrari 056 2.4 V8 AUS
Ret 		MAL
Ret 		BHR
Ret 		ESP
Ret 		TUR
17 		8th 35
Toro Rosso STR3 Ferrari 056 2.4 V8 MON
5 		CAN
8 		FRA
12 		GBR
Ret 		GER
8 		HUN
Ret 		EUR
6 		BEL
5 		ITA
1 		SIN
5 		JPN
6 		CHN
9 		BRA
4
2009 Red Bull Racing Red Bull RB5 Renault RS27-2009 2.4 V8 AUS
13 		MAL
15 		CHN
1 		BHR
2 		ESP
4 		MON
Ret 		TUR
3 		GBR
1 		GER
2 		HUN
Ret 		EUR
Ret 		BEL
3 		ITA
8 		SIN
4 		JPN
1 		BRA
4 		ABU
1 		2nd 84
2010 Red Bull Racing Red Bull RB6 Renault RS27-2010 2.4 V8 BHR
4 		AUS
Ret 		MAL
1 		CHN
6 		ESP
3 		MON
2 		TUR
Ret 		CAN
4 		EUR
1 		GBR
7 		GER
3 		HUN
3 		BEL
15 		ITA
4 		SIN
2 		JPN
1 		KOR
Ret 		BRA
1 		ABU
1 		1st 256
2011 Red Bull Racing Red Bull RB7 Renault RS27-2011 2.4 V8 AUS
1 		MAL
1 		CHN
2 		TUR
1 		ESP
1 		MON
1 		CAN
2 		EUR
1 		GBR
2 		GER
4 		HUN
2 		BEL
1 		ITA
1 		SIN
1 		JPN
3 		KOR
1 		IND
1 		ABU
Ret 		BRA
2 		1st 392
2012 Red Bull Racing Red Bull RB8 Renault RS27-2012 2.4 V8 AUS
2 		MAL
11 		CHN
5 		BHR
1 		ESP
6 		MON
4 		CAN
4 		EUR
Ret 		GBR
3 		GER
5 		HUN
4 		BEL
2 		ITA
22 		SIN
1 		JPN
1 		KOR
1 		IND
1 		ABU
3 		USA
2 		BRA
6 		1st 281
2013 Infiniti Red Bull Racing Red Bull RB9 Renault RS27-2013 2.4 V8 AUS
3 		MAL
1 		CHN
4 		BHR
1 		ESP
4 		MON
2 		CAN
1 		GBR
Ret 		GER
1 		HUN
3 		BEL
1 		ITA
1 		SIN
1 		KOR
1 		JPN
1 		IND
1 		ABU
1 		USA
1 		BRA
1 		1st 397
2014 Infiniti Red Bull Racing Red Bull RB10 Renault Energy F1‑2014 1.6 V6 t AUS
Ret 		MAL
3 		BHR
6 		CHN
5 		ESP
4 		MON
Ret 		CAN
3 		AUT
Ret 		GBR
5 		GER
4 		HUN
7 		BEL
5 		ITA
6 		SIN
2 		JPN
3 		RUS
8 		USA
7 		BRA
5 		ABU
8 		5th 167
2015 Scuderia Ferrari Ferrari SF15-T Ferrari 060 1.6 V6 t AUS
3 		MAL
1 		CHN
3 		BHR
5 		ESP
3 		MON
2 		CAN
5 		AUT
4 		GBR
3 		HUN
1 		BEL
12 		ITA
2 		SIN
1 		JPN
3 		RUS
2 		USA
3 		MEX
Ret 		BRA
3 		ABU
4 		3rd 278
2016 Scuderia Ferrari Ferrari SF16-H Ferrari 061 1.6 V6 t AUS
3 		BHR
DNS 		CHN
2 		RUS
Ret 		ESP
3 		MON
4 		CAN
2 		EUR
2 		AUT
Ret 		GBR
9 		HUN
4 		GER
5 		BEL
6 		ITA
3 		SIN
5 		MAL
Ret 		JPN
4 		USA
4 		MEX
5 		BRA
5 		ABU
3 		4th 212
2017 Scuderia Ferrari Ferrari SF70H Ferrari 062 1.6 V6 t AUS
1 		CHN
2 		BHR
1 		RUS
2 		ESP
2 		MON
1 		CAN
4 		AZE
4 		AUT
2 		GBR
7 		HUN
1 		BEL
2 		ITA
3 		SIN
Ret 		MAL
4 		JPN
Ret 		USA
2 		MEX
4 		BRA
1 		ABU
3 		2nd 317
2018 Scuderia Ferrari Ferrari SF71H Ferrari 062 EVO 1.6 V6 t AUS
1 		BHR
1 		CHN
8 		AZE
4 		ESP
4 		MON
2 		CAN
1 		FRA
5 		AUT
3 		GBR
1 		GER
Ret 		HUN
2 		BEL
1 		ITA
4 		SIN
3 		RUS
3 		JPN
6 		USA
4 		MEX
2 		BRA
6 		ABU
2 		2nd 320
2019 Scuderia Ferrari Mission Winnow Ferrari SF90 Ferrari 064 1.6 V6 t AUS
4 		BHR
5 		CHN
3 		AZE
3 		ESP
4 		MON
2 		CAN
2 		FRA
5 		AUT
4 		GBR
16 		GER
2 		HUN
3 		BEL
4 		ITA
13 		SIN
1 		RUS
Ret 		JPN
2 		MEX
2 		USA
Ret 		BRA
17 		ABU
5 		5th 240
2020 Scuderia Ferrari Mission Winnow Ferrari SF1000 Ferrari 065 1.6 V6 t AUT
10 		STY
Ret 		HUN
6 		GBR
10 		70A
12 		ESP
7 		BEL
13 		ITA
Ret 		TUS
10 		RUS
13 		EIF
11 		POR
10 		EMI
12 		TUR
3 		BHR
13 		SKH
12 		ABU
14 		13th 33
2021 Aston Martin Cognizant F1 Team Aston Martin AMR21 Mercedes-AMG F1 M12 1.6 V6 t BHR
15 		EMI
15† 		POR
13 		ESP
13 		MON
5 		AZE
2 		FRA
9 		STY
12 		AUT
17† 		GBR
Ret 		HUN
DSQ 		BEL
5 		NED
13 		ITA
12 		RUS
12 		TUR
18 		USA
10 		MXC
7 		SAP
11 		QAT
10 		SAU
Ret 		ABU
11 		12th 43
2022 Aston Martin Aramco Cognizant F1 Team Aston Martin AMR22 Mercedes F1 M13 E Performance 1.6 V6 t BHR SAU AUS
Ret 		EMI
8 		MIA
17† 		ESP
11 		MON
10 		AZE
6 		CAN
12 		GBR
9 		AUT
17 		FRA
11 		HUN
10 		BEL
8 		NED
14 		ITA
Ret 		SIN
8 		JPN
6 		USA
8 		MXC
14 		SAP
11 		ABU
10 		12th 37
Source:

Did not finish, but was classified as he had completed more than 90% of the race distance.
Half points awarded as less than 75% of race distance was completed.

Formula One records

Vettel holds the following Formula One records:

Record Achieved Ref
Most consecutive grand slams 2 2013 Singapore Grand Prix and 2013 Korean Grand Prix
Most pole positions in a season 15 2011
Youngest Grand Prix pole position winner 21 years, 72 days 2008 Italian Grand Prix (13 September 2008)
Youngest driver to score a double (pole position and race win) 21 years, 73 days 2008 Italian Grand Prix (14 September 2008)
Youngest driver to score a hat-trick (pole position, race win, and fastest lap) 21 years, 353 days 2009 British Grand Prix (21 June 2009)
Youngest Formula One World Drivers' Champion 23 years, 134 days 2010 season (14 November 2010)
Youngest World Drivers' Championship runner-up 22 years, 121 days 2009 season (1 November 2009)
Shortest time elapsed before earning a penalty 6 seconds 2006 Turkish Grand Prix (25 August 2006)
(6 seconds into his career, for speeding in the pit lane)
Footnotes
  1. Record shared with Alberto Ascari and Jim Clark.

Notes

  1. Vettel competed using the number 1 during his World Drivers' Championship defence in 2014.
  2. Vettel renamed the Red Bull RB5 from Kate to Kate's Dirty Sister after his collision with Robert Kubica at the 2009 Australian Grand Prix.
  3. Vettel renamed the Red Bull RB6 from Luscious Liz to Randy Mandy following a chassis change after the 2010 Monaco Grand Prix.

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External links

Sebastian Vettel achievements
Sporting positions
Preceded byMaximilian Götz Formula BMW ADAC Champion
2004 		Succeeded byNico Hülkenberg
Preceded byJenson Button Formula One World Champion
2010, 2011, 2012, 2013 		Succeeded byLewis Hamilton
Preceded byHeikki Kovalainen
Marcus Grönholm 		Race of Champions Nations' Cup
2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012
With: Michael Schumacher 		Succeeded byTom Kristensen
Petter Solberg
(2014)
Preceded byDavid Coulthard Race of Champions
Champion of Champions
2015 		Succeeded byJuan Pablo Montoya
(2017)
Preceded byJason Plato
Andy Priaulx
(2015) 		Race of Champions Nations' Cup
2017 		Succeeded byTimo Bernhard
René Rast
Awards and achievements
Preceded byLewis Hamilton Autosport Rookie of the Year
2008 		Succeeded byKris Meeke
Preceded byRobert Kubica Lorenzo Bandini Trophy
2009 		Succeeded byLewis Hamilton
Preceded byKimi Räikkönen DHL Fastest Lap Award
2009 		Succeeded byFernando Alonso
Preceded byPaul Biedermann German Sportsman of the Year
2010 		Succeeded byDirk Nowitzki
Preceded byMark Webber DHL Fastest Lap Award
2012, 2013 		Succeeded byLewis Hamilton
Preceded byJenson Button International Racing Driver of the Year
2010, 2011, 2012, 2013 		Succeeded byLewis Hamilton
Preceded byUsain Bolt BBC Overseas Sports Personality of the Year
2013 		Succeeded byCristiano Ronaldo
Preceded byUsain Bolt Laureus World Sportsman of the Year
2014 		Succeeded byNovak Djokovic
Records
Preceded byJenson Button
20 years, 67 days
(2000 Brazilian GP) 		Youngest driver to score
points in Formula One
19 years, 349 days
(2007 United States Grand Prix) 		Succeeded byDaniil Kvyat
19 years, 324 days
(2014 Australian GP)
Preceded byFernando Alonso
21 years, 237 days
(2003 Malaysian GP) 		Youngest race leader,
for at least one lap in Formula One
20 years, 89 days
(2007 Japanese Grand Prix) 		Succeeded byMax Verstappen
18 years, 228 days
(2016 Spanish GP)
Preceded byFernando Alonso
21 years, 236 days
(2003 Malaysian GP) 		Youngest Grand Prix polesitter
21 years, 72 days
(2008 Italian Grand Prix) 		Succeeded byIncumbent
Preceded byFernando Alonso
21 years, 237 days
(2003 Malaysian GP) 		Youngest driver to score a
podium position in Formula One
21 years, 73 days
(2008 Italian Grand Prix) 		Succeeded byMax Verstappen
18 years, 228 days
(2016 Spanish GP)
Preceded byFernando Alonso
22 years, 26 days
(2003 Hungarian GP) 		Youngest Grand Prix winner
21 years, 73 days
(2008 Italian Grand Prix) 		Succeeded byMax Verstappen
18 years, 228 days
(2016 Spanish GP)
Preceded byLewis Hamilton
22 years, 287 days
(2007 season) 		Youngest Formula One
World Drivers' Championship runner-up
22 years, 121 days
(2009 season) 		Succeeded byIncumbent
Preceded byLewis Hamilton
23 years, 300 days
(2008 season) 		Youngest Formula One
World Drivers' Champion
23 years, 134 days
(2010 season) 		Succeeded byIncumbent
Formula One World Drivers' Champions
   

1950  G. Farina
1951  J. M. Fangio
1952  A. Ascari
1953  A. Ascari
1954  J. M. Fangio
1955  J. M. Fangio
1956  J. M. Fangio
1957  J. M. Fangio
1958  M. Hawthorn
1959  J. Brabham

1960  J. Brabham
1961  P. Hill
1962  G. Hill
1963  J. Clark
1964  J. Surtees
1965  J. Clark
1966  J. Brabham
1967  D. Hulme
1968  G. Hill
1969  J. Stewart

1970  J. Rindt
1971  J. Stewart
1972  E. Fittipaldi
1973  J. Stewart
1974  E. Fittipaldi
1975  N. Lauda
1976  J. Hunt
1977  N. Lauda
1978  M. Andretti
1979  J. Scheckter

1980  A. Jones
1981  N. Piquet
1982  K. Rosberg
1983  N. Piquet
1984  N. Lauda
1985  A. Prost
1986  A. Prost
1987  N. Piquet
1988  A. Senna
1989  A. Prost

1990  A. Senna
1991  A. Senna
1992  N. Mansell
1993  A. Prost
1994  M. Schumacher
1995  M. Schumacher
1996  D. Hill
1997  J. Villeneuve
1998  M. Häkkinen
1999  M. Häkkinen

2000  M. Schumacher
2001  M. Schumacher
2002  M. Schumacher
2003  M. Schumacher
2004  M. Schumacher
2005  F. Alonso
2006  F. Alonso
2007  K. Räikkönen
2008  L. Hamilton
2009  J. Button

2010  S. Vettel
2011  S. Vettel
2012  S. Vettel
2013  S. Vettel
2014  L. Hamilton
2015  L. Hamilton
2016  N. Rosberg
2017  L. Hamilton
2018  L. Hamilton
2019  L. Hamilton

2020  L. Hamilton
2021  M. Verstappen
2022  M. Verstappen
2023  M. Verstappen
2024  M. Verstappen

Winners of Autosport's International Racing Driver Award
Winners of Autosport's Rookie of the Year
Laureus World Sports Award for Sportsman of the Year
BBC Sports Personality World Sport Star of the Year
PAP European Sportsperson of the Year
United Kingdom Aston Martin in Formula One
David Brown Corporation (1959–1960)
Notable personnel
David Brown
Ted Cutting
Reg Parnell
Notable drivers
United Kingdom Roy Salvadori
United States Carroll Shelby
France Maurice Trintignant
Formula One cars
DBR4
DBR5
Related
Aston Martin
David Brown Santasalo
Aston Martin F1 Team (2021–)
Chairman
Lawrence Stroll
Martin Whitmarsh
Team Principal
Mike Krack
Personnel
Andrew Alessi
Bob Bell
Matt Bishop
Eric Blandin
Enrico Cardile
Dan Fallows
Luca Furbatto
Andrew Green
Akio Haga
Tom McCullough
Adrian Newey
Andy Stevenson
Former personnel
Bernadette Collins
Otmar Szafnauer
Race drivers
14. Spain Fernando Alonso
18. Canada Lance Stroll
2024 Reserve driver
Brazil Felipe Drugovich
Driver Ambassadors
Spain Pedro de la Rosa
United Kingdom Jessica Hawkins
AMF1 Driver Development Programme
United States Jak Crawford
Brazil Felipe Drugovich
Switzerland Tina Hausmann
Former drivers
Germany Nico Hülkenberg
Germany Sebastian Vettel
Formula One cars
AMR21
AMR22
AMR23
AMR24
Related
Aston Martin
AMR GP
Italy Scuderia Ferrari
Drivers
2024 Race drivers
2025 Race drivers
Test and reserve drivers
Ferrari Driver Academy
F1 world champions
F1 race winners
Personnel
Founder
Current
Former
Cars
Formula One
Formula Two
IndyCar/CART
Sports cars
Engines
Current
Past
  • L4 (1952–1956)
  • V6 (1958–1966)
  • Turbocharged V6 (1981–1988)
  • V8 (1956–1958, 1964–1965, 2006–2013)
  • V10 (1996–2005)
  • V12 (1950–1951, 1964–1980, 1989–1995)
Formula One titles
Drivers' titles
Constructors' titles
Related
Austria Red Bull Racing
Founder
Dietrich Mateschitz
Advisor to Red Bull GmbH
Helmut Marko
Team principal
Christian Horner
Chief Technical Officer
Adrian Newey
Personnel
Hugh Bird
Ben Hodgkinson [ja]
Gianpiero Lambiase
Paul Monaghan
Simon Rennie
Guillaume Rocquelin
Hannah Schmitz
Pierre Waché
Ben Waterhouse
Enrico Balbo [pt]
Craig Skinner [pt]
Jonathan Wheatley
Former personnel
Rob Marshall
Ben Agathangelou
Mark Ellis
Dan Fallows
Mark Gallagher
Mark Gillan [ja]
Andrew Green
Neil Martin
Ciaron Pilbeam
Peter Prodromou
Mark Smith
Guenther Steiner
Dave Stubbs
Rob Taylor [pt]
Gavin Ward
Geoff Willis
Current race drivers
1. Netherlands Max Verstappen
30. New Zealand Liam Lawson
2024 Reserve drivers
New Zealand Liam Lawson
Switzerland Sébastien Buemi
United Kingdom Jake Dennis
World champion(s)
Germany Sebastian Vettel
Netherlands Max Verstappen
Drivers' titles
2010
2011
2012
2013
2021
2022
2023
2024
Constructors' titles
2010
2011
2012
2013
2022
2023
Sister team
RB Formula One Team
Red Bull Junior Team
France Jules Caranta
Netherlands Rocco Coronel
France Enzo Deligny
United States James Egozi
Lebanon Christopher Feghali
Germany Oliver Goethe
Japan Ayumu Iwasa
United Kingdom Arvid Lindblad
Sweden Scott Lindblom
Spain Pepe Martí
Republic of Ireland Fionn McLaughlin
Mexico Ernesto Rivera
Thailand Enzo Tarnvanichkul
Germany Tim Tramnitz
Bulgaria Nikola Tsolov
Red Bull Academy Programme
United Arab Emirates Amna Al Qubaisi
United Arab Emirates Hamda Al Qubaisi
Netherlands Emely de Heus
Formula One cars
RB1
RB2
RB3
RB4
RB5
RB6
RB7
RB8
RB9
RB10
RB11
RB12
RB13
RB14
RB15
RB16
RB16B
RB18
RB19
RB20
Concept cars
X2010/X2011/X2014/X2019
Related
Red Bull Powertrains
Red Bull GmbH
Italy Scuderia Toro Rosso
Drivers
Notable drivers
Drivers who were promoted
to Red Bull Racing
Formula One race winners
Personnel
Founder
Advisor to
Red Bull GmbH
Notable personnel
Riccardo Adami
Giorgio Ascanelli
Gerhard Berger
John Booth
Ben Butler [pl]
Jonathan Eddolls
Jody Egginton
Gianfranco Fantuzzi [pl]
Luca Furbatto
Alex Hitzinger
James Key
Laurent Mekies
Steve Nielsen
Nicolò Petrucci
Xevi Pujolar
Massimo Rivola
Rob Taylor
Franz Tost
Gabriele Tredozi
Ben Waterhouse
Graham Watson
Senior team
Formula One cars
Related
Switzerland Stake F1 Team Kick Sauber
Founder
Peter Sauber
Current
2024 drivers
China Zhou Guanyu
Finland Valtteri Bottas
2025 drivers
Brazil Gabriel Bortoleto
Germany Nico Hülkenberg
2024 reserve drivers
Barbados Zane Maloney
France Théo Pourchaire
Sauber Academy drivers
Switzerland Léna Bühler
Barbados Zane Maloney
Germany Taym Saleh
Germany Carrie Schreiner
France Théo Pourchaire
Notable personnel
Mariano Alperin [ja]
Alessandro Alunni Bravi
Ruth Buscombe
Elliot Dason-Barber
Dirk de Beer
André de Cortanze
Jost Capito
Jacky Eeckelaert
Luca Furbatto
Eric Gandelin
René Hilhorst [ja]
Nicolas Hennel
Monisha Kaltenborn
James Key
Mike Krack
Jan Monchaux
Matt Morris
Seamus Mullarkey
Steve Nichols
Tom McCullough
John Owen
Xevi Pujolar
Willy Rampf
Leo Ress [ja]
Simone Resta
Sergio Rinland
Andreas Seidl
Loïc Serra
Mark Smith
Julien Simon-Chautemps
Willem Toet
Mario Theissen
Frédéric Vasseur
Pierre Waché
Ben Waterhouse
Max Welti
Ian Wright
Jörg Zander
Beat Zehnder
Christoph Zimmermann
Notable drivers
Austria Karl Wendlinger
Germany Heinz-Harald Frentzen
United Kingdom Johnny Herbert
France Jean Alesi
Germany Nick Heidfeld
Finland Kimi Räikkönen
Brazil Felipe Massa
Italy Giancarlo Fisichella
Canada Jacques Villeneuve
Poland Robert Kubica
Germany Sebastian Vettel
Japan Kamui Kobayashi
Mexico Sergio Pérez
Sweden Marcus Ericsson
Monaco Charles Leclerc
Former drivers
See category
Sportscars
C1
C2
C3
C4
C5
SHS C6
C7
C8
C9
C11
C291
C292
Formula One cars
C12
C13
C14
C15
C16
C17
C18
C19
C20
C21
C22
C23
C24
As BMW Sauber
F1.06
F1.07
F1.08
F1.09
C29
C30
C31
C32
C33
C34
C35
C36
C37
As Alfa Romeo
C38
C39
C41
C42
C43
C44
Formula One drivers from Germany
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