Sebastian Vettel may be a name that is unknown to most hoops fans. It’s simply because Seb never made an impact on basketball and wound up having a legendary career in Formula 1 racing.

However, Vettel once revealed his aspiration to emulate the greatness of basketball icon Michael Jordan. Unfortunately, he didn’t have what it takes to be in the NBA. As Vettel’s career unfolded, it became apparent that his journey paralleled that of another legendary sports figure – his fellow F1 legend and compatriot Michael Schumacher.

“At some point, I wanted to become like Michael Jackson. So, I failed. At some point, I wanted to become like Michael Jordan, I failed. [chuckles]. And at some point, I wanted to become like Michael Schumacher. I also failed. But I think I got probably the closest [to Schumacher] out of the three,” Vettel said in a Q&A in 2021.

Seb is a hooper on the circuit

Despite being one of his generation’s best Formula 1 drivers, Vettel has maintained his love for basketball. Besides being a motorsport star, Seb is a die-hard NBA fan and basketball enthusiast.

When he’s not speeding around the F1 circuit, you might find Vettel hooping and showcasing his hidden skills on a basketball court. One of the most notable moments in which Seb was spotted playing basketball was when he crossed paths with San Antonio Spurs star point guard Tony Parker in an event in 2014.

Vettel may have a passion for basketball, but he realized early on that it wouldn’t be enough to make it to the NBA, let alone become like Jordan. Stating the obvious, Seb opted to pursue motorsport, and his stellar F1 career proves that he made the right decision.

Both of Vettel’s idols were GOATs of respective sport

In the sporting world, certain individuals rise above the rest to become true icons of their respective sports. Undeniably, both of Vettel’s idols, Schumacher and Jordan, are among them. German legend, otherwise known as the “Red Baron,” dominated the world of Formula 1 racing with his unparalleled speed and skill behind the wheel.

On the other side of the spectrum stands Jordan, who is widely regarded as the greatest player ever to grace NBA hardwood. His unmatched athleticism, competitive spirit, and clutch performances propelled him to the realm of true basketball greatness.

It is safe to say that Sebastian found right role models, and with the success he had they would be proud of him.