Ferrari team principal Mattia Binotto finally provided an update regarding Sebastian Vettel and his contract. The 4 times World Champion’s current deal with the Italian team expires at the end of 2020. Ferrari has many viable candidates for the vacant seat but is pursuing the German driver.

Sebastian Vettel: tough times at Ferrari

At the SF1000 launch and during preseason testing, Binotto made it clear that Vettel was a frontrunner for the second seat. The Italian revealed that Ferrari prioritized Vettel over other drivers. Lewis Hamilton was constantly linked with a drive at the Maranello outfit but the team were quick to deny these rumours.

Sebastian Vettel first signed with Ferrari back in 2015. The German was tasked with resurrecting the Italian team following a highly mediocre season. Vettel’s arrival has had a positive impact on Ferrari but it wouldn’t be wrong to say the German’s presence is a guiding force within the team. Unfortunately, Vettel hasn’t succeeded in accomplishing Ferrari’s long-standing aim of a bringing glory back to Maranello.

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Vettel will be entering his sixth season with Ferrari in 2020. The German’s journey with Ferrari is eerily similar to Fernando Alonso’s. Alonso, much like Vettel, came into Ferrari and had an excellent debut season. There were a few magical moments here and there but the team failed to deliver when it mattered the most.

Alonso and Vettel have had the unwanted privilege of watching from the sidelines as one driver and team dominate the competition.

Binotto provides a contract update

Binotto revealed that discussions on a new deal are already underway. The Italian disclosed that Ferrari is keen on wrapping things up as soon as possible. Speaking exclusively to F1.com, Binotto said:

“We have started discussing a new deal,”

“It’s important we address it quite soon. It’s not something we will leave until the end of the season.”

The Italian also added that it was important for the team and Vettel to reach a conclusion.

“It’s important for him and for ourselves to get clarity as soon as we can. Discussions are ongoing, and hopefully, that will be done soon”

The Italian also had words of praise for Vettel. More importantly, Binotto hinted that Vettel’s contract hinges on his performances in the early part of the season.

“He’s in a very good shape. I think he’s focused. He knows he needs to do well. It’s a key moment of his career because whatever he may do at the start of the season will be important for his renewal”