Sebastian Vettel says he is “happy” to see Fernando Alonso’s success at Aston Martin in 2023.
The two-time world champion jumped at the chance to replace Vettel after the German announced his retirement from Formula 1 at last year’s Hungarian Grand Prix.
So far, the move has paid off with Alonso finishing third at the opening three races this season, the first time the Spaniard has scored a trio of podiums in a row since 2013.
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And in Australia, Fernando couldn’t resist a cheeky dig at Vettel when asked if his former rival had retired from F1 too soon.
“I don’t know if he could have made the Aston Martin that fast, so you never know,” he said.
The four-time world champion though was typically gracious about Alonso’s impressive start to this season.
“I’m happy for him,” said Vettel. “I think there were actually many years where he didn’t have a good car, and yes, now he’s living that second spring or honeymoon.”
As for whether it has made him question his decision to retire, Sebastian continued: “I don’t regret. The first thing, of course, is joy, which is more important than anything else.
“I know the team very well from the last few years and I’m happy that they are doing so well. 2023 was going to be a better year than last season I think was obvious, because last year was pretty bad, so it was expected.
“Of course, you never know what the others are doing, but it was going to be better.
“But no matter what’s happening now, I thought it through and made my decision, regardless of how things might have gone this year.”
Vettel though did leave the door open to a possible return to F1 in 2024, stating: “I think it’s very difficult to know what will happen next year.”