Sebastian Vettel to leave Ferrari at the end of the season, says money is not the reason

Four-time Formula One champion Sebastian Vettel has decided to end his ties with car maker Ferrari after his current contract comes to an end. The racer insisted that he took the decision as there was no "common desire to stay together" beyond 2020 and money is not the reason behind it. Vettel will leave Ferrari once his contract expires at the end of the campaign, which is not expected to start until July due to delays brought about by the coronavirus pandemic.

"My relationship with Scuderia Ferrari will finish at the end of 2020," Vettel said in a statement.

"In order to get the best possible results in this sport, it's vital for all parties to work in perfect harmony. The team and I have realised that there is no longer a common desire to stay together beyond the end of this season. Financial matters have played no part in this joint decision. That's not the way I think when it comes to making certain choices and it never will be,” Vettel said.

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His statement came after several reports suggested that the racer was offered a lesser salary and shorter tenure is his new contract. 

"What's been happening in these past few months has led many of us to reflect on what are our real priorities in life. One needs to use one's imagination and to adopt a new approach to a situation that has changed. I myself will take the time I need to reflect on what really matters when it comes to my future,” Vettel said.  

He had joined Ferrari in 2015 with an aim to follow the footsteps of his idol Michael Schumacher. However, he has failed to reach similar heights since, with all of his titles coming with Red Bull. 

Things became difficult for Vettel with the emergence of young Charles Leclerc who had a dream debut season last year. The 22-year-old who won two races last year was given a new contract till 2024. He is being backed as the future star by Ferrari and their first possible champion since Kimi Raikkonen in 2007.

The two racers had a difficult season last year while crashing once during the race.o replace him.