With Hamilton having signed a new contract with Mercedes, it is time for the driver market to weave its magic and present the F1 teams with some very telling questions, going into the 2019 season.
Red Bull and Ferrari will need to seclude themselves from all the rumours and arrive at a decision regarding the the two driver team that they want to put out for next season.
For Ferrari it is a question of trusting an ‘old dog’, or letting a new horse enter the ‘race of the elite’.
Vettel was obviously quizzed about his choice of teammate for next season, and how Leclerc could fit into the whole equation.
The German, who would be driving at his home grand prix this weekend, said that he liked Kimi’s company, and was certain that Leclerc would have a bright future in the sport.
“I would be happy to continue with Kimi but it is not for me to mention, or to decide.
“I think Charles, one way or the other, will have a great career. He is a great guy, he is fast and has everything. He has no rush. He is young, but if you are young you are always in a rush with everything!
“I don’t know when or what and ultimately who [my teammate will be]. But…it doesn’t really matter to me. For me it is clear where I am next year but I think both of them would suit into the team.” he said.
The German went onto say that his relationship with Kimi was brilliant and that despite a few on track incidents, they had always been pretty straightforward with each other.
“I like Kimi,” explained Vettel.
“We get along, and we have never had any issues. Sometimes on track I remember I drove into him and crashed into him, but the way we handle things is very similar and very straightforward.” Vettel concluded.
