Sebastian Vettel has counted himself out of next year's running of the well-known Race of Champions event.

Fans of the fun annual event were surprised recently when it was announced that it would be held next January in the controversial Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Vettel is a Race of Champions regular, reportedly having attended every event since 2009.

However, just days after losing the 2017 title to Lewis Hamilton, he has announced that he will not be attending next year.

Germany's Sport Bild quotes the Ferrari driver as saying that he will instead be working in the Ferrari simulator.

"My goal is to take Ferrari back to the top," said Vettel.

"I think it would be magical to take the title back to Maranello, just like Michael Schumacher managed to do. He still inspires me."

The 2017 season continues next weekend with the Brazilian Grand Prix.