For Stewart, Vettel should not go to Ferrari too quickly
Vettel-Ferrari is a topic that frequently comes up in paddock radio discussions. The arrival of the German at the Scuderia one day is almost beyond doubt, yet for Jackie Stewart, such a decision should not be made too hastily.
Jackie Stewart is a keen observer of what happens in the Formula 1 paddocks. As an ambassador for Genii Capital and therefore close to the Lotus F1 team, the triple Scottish champion recently offered Romain Grosjean some advice. Today, it’s Sebastian Vettel’s turn to receive Sir Stewart’s enlightened opinion.
While Vettel’s arrival at Ferrari, in the short or medium term, regularly returns to the media spotlight, Stewart believes it would be a mistake for the young German to join the Scuderia too quickly. “I wouldn’t do that at this moment. I think Alonso is too strong. He is so mature that he would easily beat anyone because of the relationship he has built within Ferrari,” explains Stewart to journalist James Allen.
For Stewart, it would be wiser for Vettel to stay with Red Bull with whom he also has an excellent working relationship. « I believe it would be better to wait and stay with Red Bull because there is a group of people he knows very well now, whom he needs and who know they need him. I wouldn’t break that now. In fact, I would even wait to have a bad season with Red Bull before thinking about leaving. Then I would ask myself, ‘Where could I go to get what I need?’ and it wouldn’t necessarily be Ferrari. »
The Scotsman also took the opportunity to highlight Vettel’s qualities as a driver, who impressed him with his maturity even though he is only 24 years old. « I think he is remarkable. He is certainly the most mature 24-year-old driver I have seen in Formula 1. I think his mindset has a lot to do with it. For someone his age to discipline himself the way he does is extraordinary. I think his talent will continue for many years. »
Will Vettel continue to exercise his talent at Red Bull, which allowed him to reach Formula 1 and clinch two world championship titles, at the risk of having an off-season one day, or will he be tempted by the allure of Ferrari, which remains a special team for any F1 driver? Only time will tell, but one must admit that an Alonso-Vettel duo in red would certainly be impressive.