Formula 1 fans were treated to a blast from the past in Austin, with Sebastian Vettel reminding fans exactly why he’s a four-time world champion, with a stunning overtake on Kevin Magnussen.
The Dane could not help but applaud the German’s driving after the race, even though the overtake on the final lap lost him a place in the final standings.
“Of course, I’m gutted to lose a position to Sebastian,” he said.
“As much as it p*ssed me off it was impressive to see.”
READ: ‘That’s a bit of a problem’: Schumacher on catching Red Bull
Vettel has now won driver of the day at the past two race weekends in Suzuka and Austin, resulting in a flood of pleas from fans and pundits for the 35-year-old to reconsider his decision to retire at the end of the season.
The German seems undeterred in his plans however, with the former Red Bull and Ferrari driver laughing off a reserve driver role, claiming that they travel to every race weekend to sit back and do nothing, rendering it a pointless role for him to take up.
With all the seats bar one confirmed for next year, the only way Vettel could remain on the grid next year would be if he took the seat of Mick Schumacher at Haas, whom he treats almost like a son, making this something he would never want to do.
When asked if the thrill of battling Magnussen has made him regret his decision to call it a day, Vettel did not hesitate with his answer.
“No,” he bluntly told reporters.
“Of course I will miss moments like there – that’s no secret.
“But I thought about the decision for a long time and also about moments like this and the adrenaline that I will miss.
READ: Alpine concerned as Pierre Gasly at serious risk of race ban after US Grand Prix
“Part of me will miss it, but another part of me is looking forward to what’s to come.”
It has been rumoured in recent weeks that the German, who is adored by Formula 1 fans all around the world, could come out of retirement to race for Audi in 2026, with the team admitting that having a German driver could be ‘interesting’.
Having a German driver would certainly help attract sponsors to the German car manufacturer, and although Vettel would be a fitting candidate for the role, it is young German Mick Schumacher who has been urged to wait for the seat, with his Haas future in doubt.