Formula 1 legend Sebastian Vettel has always been more than just a driver; he's a philosopher of the asphalt. Now, after hanging up his helmet, the four-time world champion is sharing profound insights into what true success really means, redefining a concept often dictated by glittering trophies and immense wealth.
Key Takeaways from Vettel's Vision:
- Sebastian Vettel now defines success as being "at peace" and treating others with respect.
- The relentless F1 schedule made even championships feel fleeting.
- His early career focused solely on winning, leading to four world titles with Red Bull.
- Later in his career, especially with Ferrari and Aston Martin, his values evolved beyond track achievements.
The Relentless Pursuit: Early Career Drive
Vettel, who started 299 Grand Prix and secured 53 wins and 57 pole positions, candidly spoke at the Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival. He recalled a time when his focus was singular: the next victory, the next championship. This mindset fueled his incredible run of four consecutive world championships with Red Bull.
He admits the sport's high-speed demands often meant the euphoria of a win was short-lived, immediately overshadowed by preparations for the subsequent race. "You don't enjoy the moment so much," Vettel reflected, capturing the fleeting nature of F1 glory.
Beyond the Checkered Flag: A New Perspective Emerges
As his career matured, particularly during his stints with iconic teams like Ferrari and later Aston Martin, Vettel's perception of success began a significant transformation. The initial hunger for hardware shifted, giving way to a deeper contemplation of life's true values.
He began to appreciate the human connections forged and the experiences gathered, rather than just the statistical achievements. These relationships, he argues, are the true builders of character, far more potent than any trophy.
What True Success Means Now for the F1 Legend
For the retired F1 superstar, the traditional markers of success—trophies and financial rewards—have lost their former luster. Vettel now champions a more intrinsic form of achievement.
"A successful person to me is somebody who is at peace with himself or herself, is content, treating people with respect, and in a happy place doing something that fulfils him or her," he explained. This sentiment underlines a powerful shift from external validation to internal harmony.
The Journey's Lasting Imprint
Vettel firmly believes that the journey itself holds more lasting value than the destination or the spoils. While holding a trophy is a "great feeling," especially when shared with a team, its tangible presence eventually fades into the background.
"The journey has been what I really keep rather than the trophy," he emphasized. His legacy, he suggests, is not just in his dominant performances but in the integrity, camaraderie, and profound personal growth experienced throughout his illustrious Formula 1 career.
