Formula One will be losing a legend at the end of the season, with Sebastian Vettel having announced via Instagram earlier in the year that this season would be his last.
The four-time world champion, the dominated the sport during his time with Red Bull, will be looking to focus his attention on his other interests and spend more time with his family after dedicating most of his life to motor racing.
Some drivers would start to slowing wind down their career and simply enjoy their final few races in the sport, but this is not the case for Vettel who is still as dedicated as ever according to his boss.
“It’s really nice to see him work, I think we had to kick him out of the office in Mexico, otherwise he would have still been there, studying data, looking at where you can change things,” said Aston Martin team principal Mike Krack.
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“So he’s not on a farewell, this I can tell you for sure. He really wants to do well. He wants to bring us forward and play his part to finish the season in the best possible place.”
Fans will have the opportunity to bid on a place on the German’s final race helmet in Abu Dhabi, with winners being able to feature their photo on the crash helmet and see all the proceeds given to charity by Vettel.
The 35-year-old rolled back the years in Austin, completing a stunning last lap overtake on Kevin Magnussen that left pundits speechless.
The German has also picked up back to back driver of the day awards in Suzuka and Austin and this has prompted Krack to agree with journalists who believe the German is performing at the top of his game.
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“Probably yes,” he replied to suggestions that Vettel is at his best form.
“I think he gained motivation from the better performance [of the car] or the better results. It added a little bit more to his motivation.”
The team are currently locked in battle with Alfa Romeo for sixth place in the constructors’ championship and alongside teammate Lance Stroll, Vettel will be doing everything in his power to ensure his team finishes above their main rival.