Emotions have been running high among the F1 fans and the paddock itself since Sebastian Vettel announced his retirement from Formula 1.
Vettel, a 4-time world champion, spent an illustrious 15 years racing and taking a stand for multiple societal causes as well. Ever since the news of his departure, tributes have flooded in for the German driver.
7-time world champion Lewis Hamilton even organised a farewell/dinner party for his dear friend as well to bid him goodbye with happy memories. Meanwhile, other drivers exchanged helmets and words with one of the greats of the sport.
As the 2022 season ended, Autosport F1 awards graced the German with a lifetime achievement award. But that was not all that he received at the ceremony. It turns out he even placed a bid for his own sidepod.
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Sebastian Vettel bid $3,100 on his sidepods
In a silent auction, the Grand Prix trust had placed a bunch of items up for grabs for sale by bid. The items included the sidepod of Vettel’s 2022 Aston Martin F1 car.
The 4-time champion placed a $3,100 bid on the sidepod as he was quite surprised by his team. Speaking at the award ceremony, Vettel told the audience, “Can you imagine the team didn’t tell me that they’re offering my sidepod for an auction?”
Sebastian Vettel placed a bid on his own Aston Martin sidepod during Autosport Awards last night 😄
Watch the Awards Highlights Show on Sky Sports F1 tonight at 10 pm (GMT) 🍿#F1 #SebastianVettel #AstonMartin #AutosportAwards #Motorsport pic.twitter.com/TTd6PJpvkI
— Motorsport.com (@Motorsport) December 5, 2022
“So I’m trying to buy it back. I’m not sure I got it,” he added.
Later, it was revealed that Vettel did actually win his AMR21 sidepod for $3,100.
Vettel reveals what he would miss about racing
In his retirement announcement, Vettel revealed that he wants to spend time with his family and work towards the betterment of the environment.
Nevertheless, F1 has been a huge part of his life and he himself loves the sport dearly. So, receiving the award revealed what he would miss about racing.
He said that the opportunity with work such distinguished people is one of the most significant parts that he would miss. Furthermore, he said, “I’m not sure what’s next for me, but I’m very excited about it.”
