After months of speculation, Aston Martin has announced that Sebastian Vettel will race for the team in “2021 and beyond”.
Informed by Ferrari that his services would not be required after this year’s championship, Vettel was left searching for a new job.
Rumours that the German could head to Aston Martin, currently racing as Racing Point, surfaced not to long after the Ferrari announcement.
However, given that Racing Point already had two drivers signed for 2021, Sergio Perez and Lance Stroll, the big question was how can three fit into two.
That was resolved on Wednesday night with Perez announced that he would be leaving the team at the end of this season, opening the door for Vettel’s signing.
That was finally confirmed on Thursday.
“I am pleased to finally share this exciting news about my future,” said the four-time World Champion. “I’m extremely proud to say that I will become an Aston Martin driver in 2021.
“It’s a new adventure for me with a truly legendary car company.
“I have been impressed with the results the team has achieved this year and I believe the future looks even brighter.
“The energy and commitment of Lawrence [Stroll] to the sport is inspiring and I believe we can build something very special together.
“I still have so much love for Formula 1 and my only motivation is to race at the front of the grid. To do so with Aston Martin will be a huge privilege.”
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A 53-time race winner, third on the all-time list of grand prix victors, Vettel also has a further 67 podium finishes to his name.
The Silverstone team says signing the 33-year-old is a ‘ clear statement of the team’s ambition to establish itself as one of the most competitive names in the sport.’
Otmar Szafnauer, Racing Point team boss, added: “Everybody at Silverstone is hugely excited by this news.
“Sebastian is a proven champion and brings a winning mentality that matches our own ambitions for the future as Aston Martin F1 Team.
”On a Saturday or Sunday afternoon, Sebastian is one of the best in the world, and I can’t think of a better driver to help take us into this new era.
“He will play a significant role in taking this team to the next level.”
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