Hundreds of drivers have graced the land of Formula 1 throughout the sport’s history. However, there are very few who have left an evergreen mark on Formula 1. Late legend Niki Lauda was among those few, as the three-time world champion was unique in many ways but one. The Austrian became a world champion with both Ferrari and McLaren, and he is the only one to do so. He left an iconic legacy behind and everything he touched and especially every car he drove, has become an artifact. With artifacts of such high value and such incredible memories attached to them, even a legend like Sebastian Vettel couldn’t help but be awestruck.

Niki Lauda was a relevant and loved figure in the world of F1 long after his retirement. However, his greatest achievements came on the track. Among those, he achieved the most with Ferrari during the Austrian  1974 to 1977 period. However, we can’t mention the car that helped the Austrian achieve the ultimate goal twice. Lauda won two of his championships with Ferrari in 1975 and 1977 during the Ferrari 312T.

Now valued at a whopping $6 million, the car was one of Ferrari’s most successful machinery, with seven championships. Out of the 4 constructors’ and 3 drivers’ championships, Lauda won two of his championships with the iconic challenger. In fact, he won his first championship after the car’s debut in the middle of the 1975 season. This is exactly why Vettel couldn’t help but get a photo with Lauda’s iconic 312T, as seen on Twitter.

Read More: Niki Lauda’s Response to Lewis Hamilton Changed the Course of Mercedes 

An awestruck Vettel recognizes the legend behind the car and the legend who drove it to multiple championships. In fact, there was a lot of love for Lauda in Vettel’s heart, even if he failed to attend his funeral.

Sebastian Vettel reveals the reason behind missing Niki Lauda’s funeral

Back in 2019, Niki Lauda passed away aged 70. The F1 legend’s passing sent the entire sport into mourning, as most F1 entities paid their respects at his funeral. However, one notable name missing from the gathering from Vettel. The then-Ferrari man could not attend the funeral because of his prior commitments.

However, Vettel redeemed himself when he, among others, paid tribute to the late legend at the 2019 Monaco GP. Vettel designed a helmet similar to Lauda’s and even expressed his condolences after his P2 finish in the race. “I think he will always be around. We will definitely miss him. I think he’s been an icon in the past and will be in the future. So, my thoughts are with his family, and with him,” said Vettel.

WATCH THIS STORY: Charles Leclerc Extends 6-Year Monaco GP Curse by Wrecking Iconic Lauda Ferrari Chassis

The German was among many who appreciated and valued Lauda and his advice, which helped shape the careers of many, including Lewis Hamilton. It’s only fitting the retired German still gets awestruck by the Austrian legend’s iconic car.