“What a major hypocrite clown”: F1 fans react as Sebastian Vettel emerges as a surprise option for the vacant seat at Audi 

Former F1 driver Sebastian Vettel has emerged as a candidate for Audi's second seat in upcoming seasons. Sauber CTO Mattia Binotto also shared his views regarding the driver.

Vettel retired from Formula 1 at the end of the 2022 season. However, rumors of his potential return have resurfaced as Audi seeks a competitive driver for the 2026 season. The team will acquire Sauber in preparation for the new regulations. While they have secured Nico Hulkenberg, who will switch from Haas in 2025, they still need a second driver.

Recent comments from Mattia Binotto, who recently joined Sauber in the CTO capacity, intrigued fans. Binotto talked about Sebastian Vettel's strong driving skills, stating that he appreciates working with him.

"I love Sebastian. I know him very well from the past and I appreciate working with him. I know how strong he is as a person and as a driver."

The statement created a buzz among fans, who interpreted it as a possible return of the German driver to the sport with Audi. While many expressed their support for this on social media, some criticized Binotto for not renewing Vettel's contract with Ferrari after the 2020 F1 season.

"'I love Sebastian, I stabbed him in the back and announced his exit from the team before he even knew'. What a major hypocrite clown," a fan wrote.

"Even though he is the one who ended his contract with Ferrari... I mean Mattia Binotto," claimed another user.

"People forget that they ended up fighting when they were in Ferrari and that Binotto is the one who replaces him with Sainz," another fan wrote.

At the same time, many expressed their excitement about the possibility of Vettel's return. Vettel has been a fan favorite, and his return to racing has been speculated for a long time.

"We need Vettel back. I’m sure the seat blocking conversation won’t come back for him," a fan wrote.

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"At some point, we will have to make a decision": Mattia Binotto after addressing Sebastian Vettel

In addition to his positive remarks about Sebastian Vettel, Mattia Binotto discussed the team's future plans. He stated that he would need to evaluate the team's situation and make a decision that aligns with the long-term goals, rather than focusing solely on the upcoming season.

"I’ve only been here for a few weeks," Binotto added. "I have to understand everything first, look around, listen, and at some point, we will have to make a decision."

"And that has to be the right decision for Audi. Not just for 2025, but also for the future."

While speculation about Sebastian Vettel's potential return to Formula 1 is increasing, there has been no official confirmation from either him or any team.