Vettel Enjoying the Title Fight: “Great to See Verstappen Getting Closer”

Sebastian Vettel says he is thoroughly enjoying this year’s championship battle. The four-time world champion has been following the duel between Lando Norris, Oscar Piastri and Max Verstappen closely, and believes the fight is only getting more exciting now that Verstappen is closing in again. 

Vettel, who has remained a keen observer of Formula 1 since retiring at the end of 2022, says the mix of young talent, unpredictable races and changing momentum has created one of the most thrilling seasons in years. Norris leads the standings, Piastri is fighting hard to stay in touch and Verstappen continues to claw back points despite Red Bull’s challenging weekends. 

The German says he sees elements of past title fights in the current battle, but with a unique dynamic shaped by three very different personalities and driving styles. 

“Max Is Finding His Form Again” 

Speaking to Sky Sports, Vettel said he was impressed by Verstappen’s resurgence. “It is great to see Max getting closer again. At the start of the year it looked like McLaren had the upper hand, but Max never gives up. You can feel that hunger.” 

Vettel believes the three-way fight is good for the sport. “We have had years where one team dominated. Now every race weekend feels open. That is something fans have been waiting for. It is great entertainment.” 

Praise for Norris and Piastri 

Vettel also highlighted the progress made by McLaren. “Lando is driving extremely well. He looks confident, calm and very sharp in wheel-to-wheel battles. And Oscar is doing a fantastic job too. He is still learning but already shows everything he needs to fight for a championship.” 

According to Vettel, the respect between the three drivers plays a big role. “They push hard, but the racing is clean. That is something to appreciate when the stakes are this high.” 

Although Vettel has no intention of returning to Formula 1, he says seasons like this make watching the sport enjoyable again. “This is what you want to see. Different teams fighting for wins, small margins and drivers who bring out the best in each other. I am enjoying it a lot.”

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Driver profile

  • Team Red Bull Racing
  • Points 3,420
  • Podiums 126
  • Grand Prix 232
  • Country NL
  • Date of b. Sep 30 1997 (28)
  • Place of b. Hasselt (Belgie), NL
  • Weight 70 kg
  • Length 1.8 m
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