Johnny Herbert Believes Sebastian Vettel May Have Mentally “Checked Out” of Ferrari Already

As we all know very well by now, Sebastian Vettel is without a contract for 2021. That has lead people to ask a number of questions regarding his future in F1. However, what would be even more interesting to see is how Vettel and Ferrari work together this season. Will we see some more drama between the German and his Monegasque teammate, Charles Leclerc? Possibly. Also, how would the Vettel approach races, now that he isn’t assured of a future in the sport? Former F1 driver, Johnny Herbert may have an answer.

Johnny Herbert suggests that Sebastian Vettel may not give his absolute 100% in 2020

Johnny Herbert, who has 3 Grand Prix wins to his name was in conversation with Sky Sports. Talking about Sebastian Vettel in 2020, Herbert said, “(With) Sebastian – it’s just going to be very very interesting- knowing that he’s not going to be possibly anywhere at the moment on the grid, is he going to have checked out already? You know doing that final little risk when it comes down to that qualifying lap or a move- a risky move – he needs to do. Charles and the youngsters are doing that because they are so eager for that to tap into their careers, but with Sebastian, it’s obviously very very different.”

However, one could alternatively think that, if Vettel wants to keep on racing he’ll probably do much better than last season and take more risks in a bid to impress Mercedes. It is obviously all assumptions at the moment. Nevertheless, Ferrari team principal Mattia Binotto said this about Vettel, “I expect him to do very well this year because he’s a great professional and I hold him in high regard.” 

Only time will reveal which Sebastian Vettel we will see in 2020. If it is indeed his final year in F1, the Tifosi will hope that the German makes it a memorable year for himself as well as for Ferrari.