Sebastian Vettel Insists Leclerc’s Ferrari is “Much Faster” After Dismal Portuguese GP

It is no longer a surprise to see Sebastian Vettel finish in the midfield. But, at the same time, it is an absolute shame, considering the 4-time World Champion does not really belong there.

However, it has been that way at Ferrari this season for the veteran. While the team is looking to improve, Vettel has relatively been sidelined from the developed upgrades.

Having finished at P13 at the Portuguese GP, he is obviously not satisfied with his own performance. What’s worse is the fact that his teammate finished at an incredible P4, in the same ‘lackluster’ SF1000 that the German drives. Or so it would seem.

Regardless, it seems like Vettel has an explanation for the continued disparity between his result and that of his teammate, Charles Leclerc; for the veteran believes that Leclerc’s car is “much faster”.

Sebastian Vettel ‘dares to doubt’ if he is a complete idiot

There might be a reason why Vettel made such a bold claim. Considering how attaining a P4 in such a short space of time, despite Charles Leclerc’s efforts, seems like a far cry from where Ferrari were just a few races ago.

Vettel was quoted as saying, “Obviously the other car is much faster. It’s always the same places where I lose time, I can see from the data.

“An idiot might never be able to get there (where Leclerc is driving). But whether I am a complete idiot, I dare to doubt. Nevertheless, I never hit the corner.”

Sebastian Vettel had a decent first lap in the race propelling him up to P8. However ultimately, the race pace was just not enough in his SF1000 to deliver a better finish.

A matter of few races for Vettel with Ferrari now

By recent standards, Sebastian Vettel enjoyed a good Friday as well as the initial phases of Qualifying. However, it has been a recurring problem for Ferrari over the course of this season, which has seen them become a midfield team.

The fact that Charles Leclerc secured a P4 today would certainly have pinched Vettel a little. However, this relationship is only set to last for about five more races.

From a personal standpoint, it would be important for the future Aston Martin driver to keep his spirits up. And as he makes the move for the 2021 season, it will be fascinating to see how he competes against Ferrari.