Just 5 races into the season, Sebastian Vettel has started to look mentally drained from the year that he has had. The 4-times world champion was shockingly and rather unfairly axed by Ferrari, even before the season got underway. Thereafter, his performances on the track have also taken a huge step backward. Obviously, being in the very problematic SF1000 hasn’t helped his cause. But he seems to be a broken man at the moment. His struggles have gotten so bad that even long-time rival Lewis Hamilton sympathizes with him. He also lauds Vettel for the determination he continues to show.

Speaking to the press, ahead of Sunday’s Spanish Grand Prix Hamilton said, “I saw the difficult race that he’d had previously and all I can try to do is empathize with the position he is in. It can never be a great feeling to have been told that you’re not wanted.

“But I think the way he’s pushing, the way he’s continuing to try and help the team just shows the great character he has and commitment to racing. I hope that something really positive comes out for him moving forwards.”

With only 10 points from the first five races, Vettel has been under the pump. With a new chassis beneath him for this weekend’s race, Vettel will be hoping to push his points tally a lot higher. However, if he fails to deliver, could Ferrari make the decision to drop him mid-season? Or could a frustrated Vettel himself walk away? According to Seb, the answer is ‘No.’

Sebastian Vettel confident on getting through the season with Ferrari

When quizzed about whether Vettel and Ferrari could cut ties midway through the season, Vettel said, “I don’t think so. We haven’t even considered or spoken about it, so I guess it’s not just a question for myself. But as I said, I know the job that I can do. I know it has not been the cleanest run but I’m sure if things calm down and I get a decent chance then I will use it.”

Vettel’s statements reflect well with what Hamilton said about his determination. Vettel refuses to consider the season to be done and does not brand it as his worst. He still holds on to the hope that he can finish the season on a high and showcase his abilities. Good on you, Seb!