Vettel “surprised” to get on the podium

The Turkish Grand Prix was full of surprises. Sixth on the grid and more than 20 seconds from the race lead in the first laps, Lewis Hamilton managed to win with more than 30 seconds ahead of Sergio Pérez (Racing Point).

But beyond the pilot's victory Mercedes, it is the service of Sebastian Vettel (Ferrari) which caught the eye of the spectators. Eleventh when the lights went out, the German quickly moved up the rankings to claim his first podium in over a year.

« What an intense race! I had a very good first round. I quickly moved up to fourth position. The start was a little more complicated then I managed to find rhythm as the race progressed. The end was very lively. I'm surprised to find myself on the podium in the end ».

And the quadruple world champion went for this podium on the 58th and final lap of this Turkish Grand Prix. He took advantage of the exchange of arms between Charles Leclerc (Ferrari) and Sergio Pérez (Racing Point) to move into third position under the checkered flag.

« I saw that Charles was very close to Sergio who was suffering with his tires. The previous round I was already chasing them. As soon as I saw Charles lock his tires I felt there was an opportunity for me. It was very close afterwards with Sergio who had no more tires ».

Happy to find this podium which he had missed so much after a year 2020 to forget, Sebastian Vettel felt that he could go further in this Turkish Grand Prix. And further, the German speaks of victory.

« I would have liked to switch to slicks but no one dared to do so since rain was forecast for the end of the race. I think we could have fought for the victory although I am happy with this third place ».

Third behind Sergio Pérez and winner Lewis Hamilton, Sebastian Vettel was voted driver of the day by the fans. Enough to end this Istanbul weekend on an even more beautiful note.