Vettel to join Aston Martin in 2021 on multi-year contract
Four-time Formula 1 champion Sebastian Vettel will join the Racing Point team being re-branded as Aston Martin for the 2021 season, the driver announced Thursday.
"I am pleased to finally share this exciting news about my future. I'm extremely proud to say that I will become an Aston Martin driver in 2021.
"It’s a new adventure for me with a truly legendary car company. I have been impressed with the results the team has achieved this year, and I believe the future looks even brighter."
Vettel's deal also extends beyond 2021, according to his statement.
Vettel also revealed he came "close" to retiring before being wooed by Aston Martin, according to Jonathan Noble of AutoSport.com.
The 33-year-old German driver will partner with Lance Stroll and take over the spot previously occupied by Sergio Perez. Perez announced Wednesday he plans to leave the team at the end of the season.
Vettel debuted for Ferrari in 2015 after winning four consecutive Formula 1 driver championships with Red Bull Racing from 2010-2013.
He failed to win a championship for the Italian race team, finishing as a runner-up twice to Mercedes' Lewis Hamilton in 2017 and 2018.
Ferrari decided not to extend his contract past the 2020 season.