Sebastian Vettel Fuels Red Bull Return Rumors After Completing Harvard Business Course
Four-time Formula 1 world champion Sebastian Vettel has taken a significant step in his post-racing life, sparking renewed speculation of a potential return to the sport — not behind the wheel, but in a leadership role. The former Red Bull Racing driver recently completed a prestigious “Business of Entertainment, Media, and Sports” program at Harvard Business School, a four-day course with an estimated cost of around £9,400 ($12,750). He also reportedly contributed a personal investment of £10,000 towards the cause, further underlining his commitment.
This milestone achievement outside of motorsport is part of Vettel’s broader efforts to build a well-rounded post-F1 career. Since announcing his unexpected retirement from Formula 1 at the end of the 2022 season, the German has focused on environmental activism and advancing gender equality within motorsport. His decision to step away from racing came as a surprise to many, but it was entirely on his own terms — he felt it was the right time to walk away from the cockpit and dedicate himself to global causes that matter to him.
However, Vettel hasn’t completely shut the door on Formula 1. His name has resurfaced within the F1 paddock in recent months, particularly in connection with Red Bull Racing. The team’s long-serving motorsport advisor, Helmut Marko, recently named Vettel as his ideal successor. Marko, 82, has been an instrumental figure in Red Bull’s rise to prominence in Formula 1 and admitted he sees potential in Vettel taking over his advisory role when the time comes.
Although no formal discussions have been held between Marko and Vettel regarding such a transition, the Austrian has been openly complimentary of Vettel’s capabilities. Marko mentioned that he still feels “relatively fit” to continue in his role, but acknowledged that when the time comes, Vettel would be a natural fit due to his intelligence, experience, and deep understanding of the Red Bull philosophy and culture.
This is not the first time Vettel has pursued education since retiring. In late 2023, he enrolled in an agricultural course, further highlighting his diverse interests and commitment to learning. His participation in the Harvard course suggests that Vettel is preparing himself for influential roles in the sporting world, potentially at the executive level.
The timing of this educational milestone and Marko’s comments have only fueled rumors that a high-profile return to Red Bull, or to F1 in general, may be on the cards. With Max Verstappen’s future at Red Bull also under intense speculation following team tensions and exit rumors, Vettel’s emergence as a possible Red Bull leader adds another intriguing layer to the team’s future.
While Vettel has made no official comments about returning to F1 in an executive capacity, his recent actions clearly indicate that he is positioning himself for a new chapter — one that might bring him back to the paddock, not in racing overalls, but in a leadership role that shapes the sport’s future.
