Mattia Binotto Explains His Revised Role at Ferrari After Confirming Absence in Bahrain

Sebastian Vettel scored his first podium of this season at the Turkish Grand Prix. To add a silver star to the Italian Camp, in Turkey, Ferrari had their best performance so far in the season. Sebastian Vettel grabbed a P3 after Leclerc narrowly missed it and managed a P4.

The Prancing Horse had been the subject for mockery all season. The drivers, especially Sebastian Vettel, were a joke. At such a time, both the team’s and Vettel’s performance comes as a tight slap to the critics.

What looked like a perfect Sunday for Ferrari may not have ended very well indeed. In the post-race press meet, Vettel pulled a jab at Ferrari team principal, Mattia Binotto.

The German stated, “We won the most points of the season and Mattia was not here. If we don’t win so many points in the next race, we will have to make him stay more at home!”

Vettel probably said this in terms of healthy humor. However, there is a chance that Binotto might not have taken it lightly. Although he hasn’t implied any disappointment, Sebastian’s words may have hurt the Italian. His extreme decision to stay away from the Bahrain GP can be a hint to that.

“I am happy that I do not need to be on the circuit. My role is to be present in difficult times,” remarked Binotto.

The press has questioned Binotto about Ferrari’s slacking form several times, and he’d always ask them to have patience. He was always optimistic of good days ahead, and it seems like they’re finally here. However, he might not appreciate the cost of the same.

More – WATCH: Sebastian Vettel Jokes About Keeping Binotto Away After Ferrari’s Best Points Haul

Ferrari are slowly recovering their lost mojo

Sebastian’s joke hinted that if Ferrari wants to score and win, their principal must stay home. Although he instantly clarified that it was a joke, it hit Binotto exactly where it hurt.

“I knew the car was better and these results are welcome and I will not be at the next GP [in Bahrain]. Our drivers will do well. Our car has improved and they are more comfortable behind the wheel,” remarked Binotto.

The Red Italians have sung their redemption song already. The next season, with new regulations, they might even challenge the Germans. After their stint at Istanbul Park, the entire team is uplifted. They are more optimistic and ready to take on the next challenge.

“Overall, we show a competitive car. This is the most important thing, because it means that we understand which direction to go. The car has improved and that is a good sign,” remarked their director of performance.

The days are looking brighter for Vettel and Leclerc. With the unexpected conditions in Turkey, Ferrari had not anticipated such impressive results. This hints that they are slowly but surely finding their way back to the top of the board.

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