Hamilton triumph hasn't stopped Vettel enjoying 2018

Hamilton triumph hasn't stopped Vettel enjoying 2018

Originally written by Joas van Wingerden. This version is a translation.

Friday 16 November 2018 15:54

Sebastian Vettel has "enjoyed" his battle with Lewis Hamilton in 2018, despite coming out second best for a second year in succession, according to Ferrari's Jock Clear. Vettel ran Hamilton closer this year, but a sudden drop of form opened the door for Hamilton to take his fifth world title.

Victory at the British Grand Prix put Vettel top of the drivers' standings, but it would be the last time he would lead Hamilton as he slithered out of the German GP and the Mercedes man won from 17th on the grid.

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Vettel's errors and Ferrari's ruinous upgrade for the Singapore GP have characterised the Scuderia's failed bid in 2018, but Clear says the German will be reenergised in 2019, with Charles Leclerc arriving from Sauber to partner him.

"The fact is drivers of his calibre relish the pressure," said Clear. "That's again what I think, the top athletes pit themselves against the best and the pressure is the pressure. That's part of the job.

"I think he has enjoyed the season. There have been highs and lows. I think he said recently that losing the championship in 2009 he found more frustrating.

"I think on the whole, he has come to this battle willing to take risks, willing to give it his all and we're part of that. We've all done our part this year to the ups and downs.

"I think from Seb's point of view it just gives him more strength to come back next year and say 'this is unfinished business'."

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