Vettel's moods: “Sad to think that Kimi will no longer be here” in 2019

His report to Singapore

He is the master of Singapore. Sebastian Vettel (Ferrari) gleaned four poles and as many victories in the streets of the Asian city, most with Red Bull (2011, 2012, 2013) and the latest success with the Scuderia (2015). Enough to make the German the record holder and the favorite of the event, despite his early retirement in 2017 due to an accident.

The four-time world champion assures that his status as a strong man in Singapore hardly disturbs him. “It’s not a race to win at all costs this year. But I'm obviously 100% focused. I like this track. » The leader of the Reds does not fail to point out that “the rhythm here is a little different from other Asian rounds because (they keep) the European time zone, but this is nothing new. »

“I think it’s the most physically and mentally demanding trip, he continues, targeting heat and high humidity. These are the kind of races you don't really want to do, because you never have that feeling of being at the top of your preparation. But as soon as the weekend starts, you get impatient and want to race. »

His future teammate

For the first time since 2015, Sebastian Vettel will have to compose with a new teammate in the person of Charles Leclerc. The Monegasque ends the season at Sauber and is seen as a successful driver in the polite terms of the former protégé Red Bull. “It’s an incredible opportunity for him. He has been part of the Ferrari Drivers' Academy program for some time now, It’s good to see this progression.

It's great that he can be in F1, in addition in a state-of-the-art stable. The objective will be to work together as a team, but At the moment it's not my priority. It will be for 2019. »

However, the German does not hesitate to praise the good understanding with Kimi Räikkönen. “If you're fast and talented, age doesn't matter. I think you can be that fast when you're old, and Kimi is a perfect example. Kimi was the best teammate (of his career), he certifies.

If you are teammates, the crucial point is mutual respect. There was no fuss with him from the start and it continues in the same way. It's sad to think that Kimi won't be here soon. We get along extremely well. »