LONDON: Four-time world champion Sebastian Vettel is to join the renamed Aston Martin team in Formula 1 next year. Vettel, 33, is moving to the team currently known as Racing Point from Ferrari, who earlier this year decided not to offer the German a new contract. Aston Martin said signing Vettel was “a clear statement of the team’s ambition” to establish themselves at the front. Vettel replaces Sergio Perez, who announced he was leaving on Thursday. A statement from Aston Martin said Vettel had signed for “2021 and beyond” but did not confirm the length of the contract. Typically, it would be expected the German has signed a three-year deal. Vettel said: “I’m extremely proud to say I will become an Aston Martin driver in 2021. It’s a new adventure for me with a truly legendary car company. I have been impressed with the results the team has achieved this year and I believe the future looks even brighter. And I believe we can build something very special together.” Team principal Otmar Szafnauer said the team were “hugely excited” by the news.