Binotto defends Vettel mistakes

Mattia Binotto has leapt to the defence of Sebastian Vettel.

German Vettel, who turned 32 this week, is clearly under pressure at Maranello, amid rumours he could retire or return to Red Bull.

Some say he is making too many mistakes, which could prompt Ferrari to promote Charles Leclerc and put a driver like Valtteri Bottas alongside the Monaco-born youngster.

But Ferrari team boss Binotto defended Vettel's mistakes.

"It was always racing situations where Sebastian was at the absolute limit, or sometimes just over it," he told Auto Bild.

Binotto said Ferrari and Vettel's desire to finally challenge Mercedes means he is pushing so hard.

"It's certainly not easy for him, no question," said the Italian.

"He has this dream of becoming world champion with Ferrari and we support him in making it happen.

"He has a lot of experience, expertise and ability, both as a team player and a leader with a great deal of enthusiasm at work," added Binotto.

About the author

Leopold

Leopold Pleijsier founded F1-Fansite.com in 2001 and has followed Formula 1 since the early 1980s. He writes about daily F1 news, race weekends, drivers and the sport’s history.

Related topics