Sebastian Vettel is undoubtedly one of the greatest Formula 1 drivers of all time, having claimed an incredible four World Championships, and 53 race victories.
Many would think that the highly-successful German had an exciting childhood whilst rising through the racing-ranks; however; resurfaced footage has proven that it was quite the opposite.
Footage of Vettel talking on Spiegel TV in 1998 has resurfaced, where the Aston Martin F1 Team driver can be seen talking to a reporter about his horrible experience of being bullied at school.
“Once I took a trophy to school, but they destroyed it immediately and called me a show-off,” Vettel said to the reporter.
Those who bullied Vettel during his childhood may now look on in disgust at their behaviour, with the German having managed to win all his World Championships in consecutive seasons.
READ: Russian driver finds solution to ban as he completes Ferrari test day ahead of FP1 appearance
The 35-year-old has had an incredible career in Formula 1; however, he has failed to reach the heights of his days at Ferrari or Red Bull Racing as of late.
Since moving to Aston Martin, Vettel has only featured on the podium once, a second-place finish at the 2021 Azerbaijan Grand Prix.
The days of Vettel fighting for wins and championships appear to be well and truly over, leaving the German wondering if he even wants to continue in the sport next season.
“I don’t want to fight for the points, but for the victory. Otherwise the fun is gone for me,” he said, as quoted by F1 reporter Davide Russo.
“In the coming weeks, in consultation with my family, I will be clear about how realistic my goals are and about how much energy I still have to grow with the team.”
Vettel’s contract is set to expire at the end of this season; however, team principal Mike Krack has ensured the media that a seat is available for Vettel next season, should he want it.
The four-time World Champion may decide to take up a deeper role in activism, having demonstrated his support for a number of campaigns as of late.
Vettel wore a bee-inspired helmet at the Austrian Grand Prix, a year on from constructing bee house’s in the country.
It’s clear the German is preparing for life post-racing, having appeared on BBC political show ‘Question Time’ as well, prior to the Spanish Grand Prix.