Four-time world champion Sebastian Vettel will leave Red Bull to join Ferrari, replacing Fernando Alonso, who is set for McLaren. Red Bull announced on Saturday that 27-year-old Vettel had advised them he would be leaving. Team principal Christian Horner said Ferrari had made Vettel a very attractive offer. "2008 was a great year in my life. The feeling I have now is way, way past that. The greatest feeling ever. Horner also revealed that Vettel only told him of his decision to leave on Friday night – during the Japanese Grand Prix- hours before the official announcement was made. "All I can do is wish him the very best for the future," he said. Vettel said that he just needed a change of air and a fresh challenge after six seasons with the same team. No doubt the opportunity to reach a much larger audience and to associate his personal brand with Ferrari, was a big part of the motive. “It is not the first time I have been approached but it felt like the right time,” said Vettel. “I’m not leaving because I don’t like the team or individuals, I’m not running away from anything. The voice inside me, the hunger to do something new was bigger. It was not the easiest decision but you have to listen to your heart.” On saturday, Vettel lap the Fiorano circuit for the first time as a Ferrari driver, completing almost 100 laps to build up confidence with the team and his new seat. Sunday was entirely taken up with simulator work, where Vettel put in some long sessions of virtual driving. Vettel will be replaced at Red Bull by Russian Toro Rosso driver Daniil Kvyat.