Sebastian Vettel to leave Red Bull for Ferrari as McLaren beckons Alonso

Formula One world champion Sebastian Vettel said on Saturday that his shock decision to leave Red Bull at the end of the season had come from the heart, denying that he was “running away.” The German told reporters ahead of the Japanese Grand Prix that he was close to signing for a new team, widely expected to be Ferrari. Vettel, 27, has won the last four F1 driver championships while driving for Red Bull.

The voice inside me, the hunger to do something new, was bigger. It was not the easiest decision but you have to listen to your heart.

Sebastian Vettel

Red Bull boss Christian Horner revealed that Vettel, who has lagged behind Mercedes pair Lewis Hamilton and Nico Rosberg in 2014, had informed him of his decision on Friday, indicating that the driver’s destination was indeed Ferrari. Former champion Fernando Alonso, currently with Ferrari but being linked to a return to McLaren, expressed surprise at Vettel’s announcement. Alonso is expected to replace Jenson Button at McLaren.

vettel Sports