The Formula 1 world is once again on fire and now that four-time world champion Sebastian Vettel has confirmed that he is talking to Red Bull Racing about a possible return to the sport. The German, who won four world titles between 2010 and 2013 with the Austrian team, hinted in a recent ORF podcast on a role outside the cockpit, possibly as a successor to the legendary Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko. Max Verstappen, the reigning world champion and current star of Red Bull, has congratulated his former teammate and mentor on this exciting news, emphasizing the bond between the two drivers. The announcement of Vettel’s conversations has stirred the F1 community, with speculation about how his return can change the landscape of the sport.

Vettel, who said goodbye to Formula 1 after an impressive career in 2022, has never hidden that he has a special bond with Red Bull. His successes with the team, including 38 victories and four consecutive championships, made him one of the greatest drivers in the history of sport. Now, at the age of 37, Vettel seems to be open to a new role within Formula 1, possibly taking over the tasks of 82-year-old Marko. Marko, who has been a key figure within Red Bull for decades, is responsible for scouting and developing talents such as Verstappen and Vettel itself. In conversation with ORF, Vettel said: “I can still get along well with Helmut, and we are talking. It is not yet intensive, but it can play a role.” These words have started the rumor mill, with fans who are eagerly looking forward to what Vettel’s return can mean.

Max Verstappen, who debuted at Red Bull in 2016 and has broken records since then, was quick to express his support. In a recent statement, he congratulated Vettel and expressed his appreciation for their shared history. “Seb is a legend in sport and has meant a lot to Red Bull and for me personally,” said Verstappen. “It would be great to see him again in the team, in whatever role.” These words reflect the mutual admiration between the two drivers, both of which have grown under Marko’s guidance into world champions. Verstappen, who won his third title in 2023 and again dominates in 2025, sees a mentor figure in Vettel who knows the sport through and through.

The speculation about Vettel’s return comes at a time when Red Bull Racing stands for a crucial phase in the 2025 season. Despite Verstappen’s strong performance, with victories in Japan and Imola, the team has had to deal with challenges. A controversial incident with George Russell in Spain and a disappointing race in Monaco have put pressure on the lead of Verstappen in the championship, with McLaren’s Oscar Piastri as his closest attacker. According to Juan Pablo Montoya, former-F1 driver, Red Bull recently conducted an “intense conversation” with Verstappen to keep the focus. The possible addition of Vettel to the team, with his wealth of experience, could help Red Bull to become stronger both on and next to the job.

Fans on social media, as seen in posts on X, respond enthusiastically to the news, although some speculate about the exact role that Vettel could play. A return as a driver seems to be excluded, since Marko’s earlier remarks that Vettel’s speed decreased at the end of his career and that it would not be fair to place him next to Verstappen. Instead, an advisory or management role seems more likely, where Vettel could use his knowledge to guide young talent such as Arvid Lindblad. Lindblad, a 17-year-old Brit, is seen by many as the biggest Red Bull talent since Verstappen and has recently achieved his super license.

While the Formula 1 season continues towards the Grand Prix of Austria, the possible return of Vettel remains a hot topic. The Red Bull Ring, where Verstappen has already won five times, will undoubtedly be buzzing with speculation. Whether Vettel actually returns and in what capacity remains uncertain, but his conversations with Red Bull and the support of Verstappen indicate an exciting future. With his experience and charisma, Vettel can add a new dimension to the team, while Verstappen continues the battle for the world title. Formula 1 remains a sport full of surprises, and this news proves that again.