Sebastian Vettel on Self-Doubt: Even Michael Schumacher Had It

Sebastian Vettel has admitted he was "probably not on the peak anymore" when he joined Aston Martin in 2021, seeking reassurance that he could still compete at the highest level. The four-time World Champion revealed a surprising conversation with his hero, Michael Schumacher, who confessed to experiencing the same self-doubt despite his legendary status, a moment that left Vettel in disbelief.

Why it matters:

This candid admission from a four-time World Champion highlights the immense psychological pressure and universal self-doubt that even the most successful drivers in Formula 1 face. It offers a rare glimpse into the mindset of an elite athlete, reminding fans that behind the helmet, drivers grapple with the same insecurities as anyone else, and that a legend like Schumacher was no exception.

The details:

• Vettel moved to Aston Martin (formerly Racing Point) in 2021 after a challenging final season with Ferrari, using the new challenge to find personal validation.
• The 2020 COVID-19 hiatus prompted deep reflection for Vettel, making him realize he was no longer at his absolute peak and needed to prove to himself that he "could still do this."
• The Schumacher shock: Vettel recalled speaking to Schumacher about these feelings years ago. "Even he had it," Vettel said, expressing his astonishment. "He was the best in everything I could imagine with racing. And he was insecure. What! You?"
• During his two seasons with Aston Martin, Vettel's best result was a podium finish at the 2021 Azerbaijan Grand Prix before retiring at the end of 2022.
• Despite the team not achieving the results he'd hoped for, Vettel felt the period was crucial for him personally, allowing him to "feel really comfortable again with my driving."

The big picture:

Vettel's reflections, shared on the 'Beyond the Grid' podcast, paint a picture of a champion's final chapter focused on personal validation over outright results. The story serves as a powerful testament to the mental fortitude required in F1, bridging the gap between two of Germany's greatest drivers and revealing that the quest for confidence is a constant battle, even at the pinnacle of the sport.