LONDON –
Four-time world champion Sebastian Vettel said on Thursday that climate change has made him question his job as a racer who travels the world to race.
Speaking on BBC Question Time, a TV show featuring politicians and famous guests, the German was asked if his views on the environment made him a hypocrite. considering him part of a “gas-consuming” sport.
“That’s right, and you’re right when you laugh,” replied the 34-year-old father of three. “There are questions I ask myself every day and I’m not a saint.
“Some things are in my control and some things are not. It’s my passion to drive, I love it and every time I step in the car I love it.
“When I stepped out of the car, of course I was also thinking ‘Is this what we should be doing, traveling the world, wasting resources?'”
The Aston Martin driver wore a t-shirt ahead of last weekend’s Miami Grand Prix with the tagline “Miami 2060 – First Grand Prix Underwater – Act Now or Swim Later” to highlight the impact of climate change .
He is also outspoken about the environment and renewable energy as well as addressing human rights and LGBTQ+ issues.
Vettel said Formula One, which is creating a huge momentum for sustainability, also plays an important social role as entertainment.
“There are things I do because I feel like I can do better. Do I need to fly all the time? No, not when I can’t take a car,” said the driver, whose contract was over. with his team at the end of the year.
Formula One is aiming to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2030, with 100% sustainable fuel from 2026 when a new engine is introduced.
Vettel also offered opinions on Brexit, the war in Ukraine, whether Finland should join NATO, its dependence on energy and British Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s involvement in the “partying” scandal caused by the scandal. breach of COVID-19 pandemic restrictions.
Reporting by Alan Baldwin; Editing by Grant McCool
