Four-time world champion Sebastian Vettel on Thursday announced he will retire from Formula One at the end of this season, according to Anadolu Agency.

The 35-year-old German, who leaves the sport as one of the most successful drivers in history, said he made the “difficult” decision to spend more time with his family.

“I love this sport. It has been central to my life since I can remember. But as much as there is life on track, there is my life off track too. Being a racing driver has never been my sole identity,” Vettel said in a video message on Instagram.

He bagged 53 race wins in his F1 career – third behind Hamilton and Schumacher – and made 122 podiums.

An Aston Martin statement hailed Vettel as an inspiration for “so many throughout his career, both in Formula One and beyond.”

“We’re proud to call him a teammate, a friend and to have been part of his journey, just as he has been part of ours,” the team said.

Aston Martin boss Lawrence Stroll also thanked the German for “the great work that he has done for Aston Martin over the past year and a half.”

Source: Azerbaijan State News Agency