Scuderia Ferrari and Sebastian Vettel announced on Monday that they would be parting ways at the conclusion of the 2020 Formula 1 season.
The two sides have been in negotiations for some time now as they attempted to find a common ground on which to continue forward with the partnership.
Sebastian Vettel and Scuderia Ferrari Part Ways at end of 2020 Season
It was not to be, however, for Vettel and Ferrari. In a move sure to shake up contract negotiations for several teams, Sebastian Vettel stated that “The team and I have realized that there is no longer a common desire to stay together beyond the end of the season.” (www.Formula1.com) The decision was a joint one, according to both parties and Team Principal Mattia Binotto had only good things to say about the former World Champion.
Teammate Charles LeClerc also spoke fondly of Vettel, saying “I’ve never learnt so much as I did with you as my teammate.” (www.bbc.com). The two had been known to collide both on and off the track. The results were sometimes less than peaceful teammates and more along the lines of arch enemies. That, however, seems to be behind the two as both Vettel and LeClerc graciously spoke of one another and gave each other credit for the few successes Ferrari experienced last year.
What Happens Next?
Now, the two questions on everyone’s mind is what will happen to Sebastian Vettel and who will fill his seat at Ferrari? It could be Vettel has had enough of Formula 1 and is ready to move onto other endeavors. It also could be there is a line of his teams waiting at his door to make him an offer he can’t refuse. As for who will be the next to sit in the most coveted seat in Formula 1, rumors swirl madly, but no actual announcement has been made. No matter which way things go, the next few weeks in Formula 1 should be interesting.
