Formula One: Could former champion Sebastian Vettel be set for a comeback from retirement?

The 36-year-old has stated that a talk with multiple team bosses has prompted him to consider a comeback.

“I am speaking to Toto. I don’t know if that qualifies as Mercedes, but about other things,” Vettel told Sky Sports News.

“I’m talking to a lot of people because I know them, but not very specific. It (return) does cross my mind, I do think about it, but it’s not the main thought,” the German added.

“I have three kids at home, it’s busy every day, so there’s a lot of other thoughts I have. There are ideas that I have.

“Events that I’m planning going forward, so I did speak to a lot of other team principals as well, and not only about racing. There’s thoughts, but nothing concrete at the minute.”

Vettel also added that he was surprised by Hamilton’s decision to leave Mercedes. “I was surprised like I guess most of us were,” he said.

“But it is exciting. Obviously he’s looking for a new challenge and it will be different to see him in red, in a different colour.”

Vettel remained tight-lipped about a possible return through a maiden appearance in the iconic Le Mans 24 Hours endurance racing, having spent time with Porsche’s contender for the event.

“I’ve been testing. I was curious, so I wanted to see how it feels. It’s obviously a different discipline. It’s still racing, but it’s a different car, different discipline.

“I am (tempted) and I’m not. I am obviously also looking for lots of other things and there’s lots of other things that do interest me outside of racing.”

Hamilton sees worthy successor in Vettel

Meanwhile, Hamilton has cited the talk of Vettel’s probable return and association with Mercedes as an “amazing option”.

“I would love for Seb to come back and I think it would be an amazing option for the team (Mercedes).

“German driver, multi-world championship winning driver, and someone who has amazing values who would continue to take the team forward. I’d love it if he came back,” Hamilton remarked ahead of the Japanese Grand Prix.