In a virtual press conference last month, Formula One star Sebastian Vettel said there would be “no discussion” about the possibility of him retiring at the end of the 2020 season. He is, however, ditching Ferrari.

Releasing a statement Tuesday, Ferrari confirmed reports that it and the four-time F1 world champion have mutually agreed to part ways at the end of the season, which is currently paused because of the global COVID-19 pandemic and is not expected to return until July at the earliest. Vettel’s current contract is up at the end of the current season.

The German driver will turn 33 years old in July, and without a ride for next season, his future in the sport remains in limbo — even if he was previously adamant about not retiring. Depending on how other free-agent pieces move around, there could be a place for Vettel with McLaren, Renault or even Red Bull, but his inability to reach a deal with Ferrari could also leave him without a job.

In a statement released with Ferrari, Vettel explained how, despite being in contract talks for a while, the last few months have given him a chance to reflect on his career and future. He said in full:

“My relationship with Scuderia Ferrari will finish at the end of 2020. 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.

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.

Scuderia Ferrari occupies a special place in Formula 1 and I hope it gets all the success it deserves. Finally, I want to thank the whole Ferrari family and above all its “tifosi” all around the world, for the support they have given me over the years. My immediate goal is to finish my long stint with Ferrari, in the hope of sharing some more beautiful moments together, to add to all those we have enjoyed so far.”

In his first five years with Ferrari, Vettel earned 14 grand prix victories, making him the third-most successful driver for the team. The 2020 season, when it starts, now will be his sixth and final year with the team.

In part, Ferrari team principal Mattia Binotto said in the statement:

“This is a decision taken jointly by ourselves and Sebastian, one which both parties feel is for the best. It was not an easy decision to reach, given Sebastian’s worth as a driver and as a person. There was no specific reason that led to this decision, apart from the common and amicable belief that the time had come to go our separate ways in order to reach our respective objectives.”

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