How Vettel helped Aston Martin fix "little quirks" in 2021

Former Aston Martin team principal Otmar Szafnauer has paid tribute to the confidence brought to the team by Sebastian Vettel that helped fix the "little quirks" of the AMR21.

Aston Martin struggled in 2021 and dropped down the order after a number of aerodynamic changes were made ahead of the season that affected the low-rake cars, including Mercedes and Aston Martin, more than high-rake cars.

The Silverstone-based outfit eventually finished the campaign seventh, ahead of only Williams, Alfa Romeo and Haas.

In an interview with GPFans in December and before his departure from the team, Szafnauer revealed that Vettel's levelheadedness had been an asset as Aston Martin attempted to get on top of its issues last year.

“The experience that he brings does mean that we don't get flustered," said Szafnauer.

"Not that we did before but with his experience, you can rely on and ask him.

"And when things aren't quite right with all the experience that we have and that he has too then you feel more confident that you will get over the little quirks that you have.” 

When Vettel secured the most recent of his four world titles in 2013, Lewis Hamilton remained only a one-time champion.

Asked if he could see the talent and drive within Vettel to get back to the top of the sport, Szafnauer stated: "Absolutely.

"He still has the drive. He definitely has the work ethic and he's got the talent, he's only 34 years old and yes I see that.

“[It is] just the car, and hopefully next year [Aston Martin] give him something that he can win with."

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