Vettel and Stroll 'the ideal blend of experience and raw talent' - Szafnauer

Aston Martin team principal Otmar Szafnauer has described driver pairing Sebastian Vettel and Lance Stroll as an "ideal blend" ahead of the team's first season under the banner of the luxury automotive manufacturer.

Before the start of last season, Ferrari announced Vettel would not be remaining with the team beyond the end of the year.

This sparked a flurry of activity in the driver market but the German's new team, although widely speculated to be Aston Martin, was not confirmed until September.

Vettel eventually replaced Sakhir Grand Prix winner Sergio Perez as partner to Lance Stroll, with the Mexican finding a new home alongside Max Verstappen at Red Bull.

“It’s hugely exciting for everyone in the team," said Szafnauer on his new line-up.

"In Sebastian, we have a proven four-time world champion with experience of helping teams become race-winning and championship-contending outfits.

"That’s why he is such an important signing for us. He brings a winning mentality and we will all undoubtedly learn a lot from him on this journey."

Vettel endured a torrid final season with Ferrari, scoring a career-low 33 points compared to the 98 of team-mate Charles Leclerc.

As for Stroll, the Canadian endured a mixed campaign that started well before a heavy crash in Mugello dented his confidence and stalled his momentum.

Despite this, Stroll twice stood on the podium with two third-place finishes, while he also scored his first pole position in F1 at the Turkish GP.

Szafnauer added: "In Lance, we have a young and talented, hard-working driver who enjoyed his best campaign to date last year and really made strides in all areas of his racing.

"We know if we give him the tools, he’s more than capable of helping the team reach its goals.

"We also think Sebastian will bring out the best in Lance, with Lance pushing Sebastian hard in return, so we’re delighted with our 2021 line-up.

"It’s the ideal blend of experience, race-winning knowhow, and raw talent."

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