Ferrari’s Loss Is Aston Martin’s Gain: How Sebastian Vettel Is Changing Things at His New Team

Sebastian Vettel is undeniably one of the most respected drivers off the track at the moment. His on-track remarks, however, were hardly appreciable in his farewell Ferrari season.

Nevertheless, despite the struggle-induced campaign in the backdrop, Aston Martin yearned for Vettel to join their team in 2021. Consequently, a lot questioned Aston Martin’s motive in signing a driver who in the fall of his career. But, how wrong have they proven the critics!

Aston Martin’s team principal, Otmar Szafnauer, opened up about the kind of impact Vettel is having in the entire outfit. Being a 4-time world champion, Vettel does carry a zest in pushing the team into dreaming bigger and potentially aim for the title.

What did the Aston Martin boss say?

Otmar pointed out Vettel’s champion attitude, which is helping the team develop the 2021 challenger much stronger than they had imagined.

“Seb is just brilliant. He brings with him this very special attitude of a GP winner and world champion,” Szafnauer said, according to Speed Week.

“We’re talking about a pilot who leaves no stone unturned when it comes to working methods to make his car faster. He is instrumental in bringing us to a higher level.”

Formula One F1 – Austrian Grand Prix – Red Bull Ring, Spielberg, Styria, Austria – Aston Martin’s Sebastian Vettel before the race Pool via REUTERS/Christian Bruna

Aston Martin are definitely not the fastest mid-field team on the track this season. However, the significant pace deficit did not slow down Vettel, who managed to secure 2 podiums this season, although it is 1 on paper.

Hence, there is no denying that the German has already made a huge impact in the team, not only as a driver but also as an engineer.

Read More: Aston Martin F1 Boss Discloses Sebastian Vettel’s True Intention for Joining Them

Otmar on the involvement of Sebastian Vettel in Mercedes engine

Szafnauer revealed that Vettel has been playing a huge role in improving the drivability of the Mercedes engine. “His vast experience in handling Formula 1 engines has also led to new insights into the drivability of a drive unit among the Mercedes people,” he said.

“As an engine becomes more drivable, it increases pilots’ confidence and makes them faster. Seb has also been very involved in ergonomics. In other words, with all the operating elements in the cockpit, starting with the steering wheel.”

Formula One F1 – Hungarian Grand Prix – Hungaroring, Budapest, Hungary – Aston Martin’s Sebastian Vettel celebrates with team members after finishing second Pool via REUTERS/Florion Goga

Overall, Vettel has certainly regained his confidence after hitting a career-low at Ferrari last season. What’s more, despite Aston Martin’s early struggles, Vettel is still on course to sign off the 2021 season in the top 10.

Hence, can the German deliver a strong showing in the remaining 12 races to finish the season on a high? Well, we’ll know in time.

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