Sebastian Vettel has playfully responded to reports linking him to a McLaren seat next year as “just rumours”.
The four-time world champion is out of contract at the end of this year and is expected to either continue at Aston Martin or retire from Formula 1 altogether.
However, amid the ongoing speculation surrounding Daniel Ricciardo’s future at the Woking-based team, Vettel was named by the BBC as an option being considered should the Australian leave.
“I think Lando has a contract!” Seb joked on Thursday at Paul Ricard, obviously referencing Ricciardo’s teammate Lando Norris.
“No, I know some people there but I think it’s just rumours.”
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Previously, Vettel had indicated a decision for 2023 would be made in the coming weeks, although Aston Martin boss Mike Krack was “confident” of keeping the 35-year-old after “constructive” talks so far.
“Well I’m racing this weekend, and the next one,” the German said when asked about his future plans. “Then obviously I’ve said that at some point we’ll start to talk and I’m talking to the team.
“I think there is a clear intention to keep going and we’ll see soon where we stand.”
As for this weekend, Vettel is once again on double duty as he will be driving a 1922 Aston Martin GP, nicknamed the ‘Green Pea’ during the weekend.
The British brand is celebrating 100 years since the car made its Grand Prix debut in Strasbourg at the French GP and, like his run in the 1992 Williams at Silverstone, Seb will use sustainable biofuel for his demo at Paul Ricard.
“It was great to find out that this car is still alive, it still runs and is in such good shape,” said Vettel.
“It’s crazy to imagine how long it’s been around but great to see that it’s still there. I’m very much looking forward to getting behind the wheel. I’m guessing it will be very different to what I’m used to.”
