Sebastian Vettel’s Shocking F1 Comeback: Could Cadillac Be His Ticket Back to the Grid?

Sebastian Vettel’s potential return to Formula 1 has sent shockwaves through the motorsport world. After retiring in 2022, the four-time world champion appears to be exploring a comeback, with new reports suggesting he has been in discussions about securing a seat for the 2026 season. With major shifts expected across the grid, could Vettel find a new home in F1? And more intriguingly, could Cadillac be a key player in his return?

Vettel’s final years in F1 with Aston Martin were far from the fairytale ending his career deserved. The team struggled to provide him with a competitive car, and despite his immense experience, he was unable to fight at the front. His departure was seen as a move towards environmental activism and family life, but now, reports indicate that the German driver is eager to get back behind the wheel.

According to F1 Insider, Vettel made an attempt to secure a seat with Audi for 2024, though the team ultimately opted against signing him. Despite his connections with Audi’s leadership, including Andreas Seidl and Mattia Binotto, the team reportedly did not see Vettel as the right fit to lead their project. However, this setback does not seem to have deterred him from finding another opportunity to re-enter the sport.

One of the most intriguing options on the table is Cadillac’s new F1 project. The American manufacturer, which is expected to enter the sport alongside Andretti, has two available seats for 2026. While one is likely to be reserved for an American driver, the second could go to an experienced veteran capable of leading the team in its early years. Vettel’s extensive knowledge, particularly from his time at Ferrari, could be invaluable to Cadillac as they build their presence in F1.

At 37 years old, Vettel is younger than both Fernando Alonso and Lewis Hamilton, who remain highly competitive in the sport. His experience and adaptability could make him a prime candidate for a return. However, one of the key challenges will be whether Vettel is willing to join a developing team rather than an already established front-runner.

Another potential obstacle is Cadillac’s commercial strategy. While signing a driver of Vettel’s caliber would undoubtedly bring attention to the team, the financial benefits of other options—such as Sergio Pérez, who brings significant sponsorship backing—could influence Cadillac’s decision-making process. The balance between experience and marketability will be a crucial factor in determining whether Vettel becomes a realistic option.

Beyond Cadillac, other doors may not be entirely closed for Vettel. Audi’s lineup for 2026 remains fluid, with uncertainties surrounding Nico Hülkenberg and young talent like Gabriel Bortoleto. If Audi struggles to gain momentum in its early F1 seasons, they could reconsider Vettel’s experience as a valuable asset. Additionally, key figures at Audi, such as Christian Horner’s former Red Bull colleague Jonathan Wheatley, could advocate for Vettel’s return.

Ultimately, if Vettel does make a comeback, it will likely be with a team that has the potential to fight for podiums and victories in the near future. His decision to leave Aston Martin stemmed from his frustration with their trajectory, and it is unlikely that he would return to F1 just to fill a seat. Instead, he will be looking for a project that aligns with his ambitions and legacy.

With the 2026 regulations set to reshape the competitive landscape of F1, Vettel’s return could add another thrilling layer to the sport. Whether it is with Cadillac, Audi, or another team, the possibility of seeing the four-time world champion back on the grid is a storyline that fans will be watching closely in the coming months.