After months, if not a full year, of speculation, Sebastian Vettel and Ferrari have announced the end of their partnership.
The German, who joined Ferrari from Red Bull in 2015, will leave the Scuderia at the end of this year after failing to agree terms.
Vettel was reportedly chasing a multi-year deal while Ferrari offered him just one, 2021.
The deal, says the rumour mill, came with a hefty pay cut although Vettel has been quick to deny that money has played any role in the split.
Instead he says it was evident they no longer had a “common desire” to work together in the future.
“My relationship with Scuderia Ferrari will finish at the end of 2020,” said Vettel.
“In order to get the best possible results in this sport, it’s vital for all parties to work in perfect harmony.
“The team and I have realised that there is no longer a common desire to stay together beyond the end of this season.
“Financial matters have played no part in this joint decision. That’s not the way I think when it comes to making certain choices and it never will be.”
The 32-year-old will now take the time to decide what he wants for his future, whether that be in Formula 1 or away from the spotlight.
“What’s been happening in these past few months has led many of us to reflect on what are our real priorities in life,” he added.
“One needs to use one’s imagination and to adopt a new approach to a situation that has changed. I myself will take the time I need to reflect on what really matters when it comes to my future.
“Scuderia Ferrari occupies a special place in Formula 1 and I hope it gets all the success it deserves.
“Finally, I want to thank the whole Ferrari family and above all its ‘tifosi’ all around the world, for the support they have given me over the years.
“My immediate goal is to finish my long stint with Ferrari, in the hope of sharing some more beautiful moments together, to add to all those we have enjoyed so far.”
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