“Too Slow” – Vettel Demands Aston Martin Improve in Major F1 Area to Avoid Dutch GP ‘Botch’

Sebastian Vettel didn’t have the best time in Zandvoort this weekend. After a disappointing qualifying, the circuit gave Vettel very little room for improvement. Nonetheless, Vettel takes the loss in his stride and looks to improve at Monza.

The four-time champion commented, “It was just one of those days again. We were caught on the wrong foot yesterday. If we are closer to the front, we can have a boring race, compete and score easy points. But as it is, we have to try more, take risks, and then find it difficult.” 

Vettel rightly believes that a better position in qualifying would have given him a shot at the points. However, traffic during Q1 robbed Vettel of the opportunity to set a better time.

However, he is clear on where the team needs to improve. “The key is in qualifying and we are too slow there. In the race, we don’t have to hide when it comes to pace. But we are often too far back. It wasn’t the first time this year that it was botch because it’s just so difficult to get out back there.”

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While Vettel is getting used to competing in the front, the P13 finish at Zandvoort was acquired with much difficulty; a situation the German wouldn’t like being in.

Sebastian Vettel looks back on the difficult Sunday

Zandvoort was known to be a circuit where overtaking would be difficult. While drivers like Sergio Perez managed their way through the crowd, the only real opportunity was in Turn 1. Vettel recognized the difficulty the circuit presented. In an attempt to get ahead, Vettel spun on lap 38.

Vettel avoided the barriers and what could have been a nasty collision with Valtteri Bottas, but reflected on his mistake nonetheless. “We were already far away, so I had to try everything and take higher risks. Unfortunately, that led to a mistake and cost even more time.” He explains that the banking caught him off guard, losing grip on the rear end.

The only positive for the German was the final stint of the race. “The last stint was the only one with a clear run, it was okay. Once I got into the rhythm, it went really well.”

Vettel heads to Monza well-equipped with what needs to be done to maximize the slow car. It’s been a good season for Aston Martin, and it would be a shame if they fall behind in the second half of the season.

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