Vettel says Ferrari can end 16-year Monaco losing streak
Sebastian Vettel insists that he and Ferrari have nothing to fear about their chances for this year's Monaco Grand Prix, even though his team has not won there since 2001.
Sebastian Vettel, Ferrari, Maurizio Arrivabene, Ferrari Team Principal
Sutton Images
The Monte Carlo event is the scene of Ferrari's longest-ever losing streak in F1, having failed to secure victory in the street race since Michael Schumacher triumphed 16 years ago.
But with Ferrari having challenged for victory at all five tracks so far this season, Vettel says he is full of confidence about its chances of ending that win jinx.
"I think we have a very strong package and a very strong team, so we don't have anything to be afraid of," explained the German on Wednesday.
"If you look at the last couple of years, it is true that Mercedes were very strong around here so they will be the ones naturally to beat, but I am confident that we can have a good weekend."
Ferrari drew great encouragement about its ultimate potential in Russia last month when it locked out the front row, and Vettel believes that the SF70H is good enough to take the crucial top spot on the grid this weekend.
The last time Ferrari was on pole in Monaco was back in 2008 with Felipe Massa.
"Yes. I think it is possible," he said. "We need to get into the rhythm as Monte Carlo is a lot about confidence at the end of the day, so you need to trust your car.
"I am confident we have the tools, so it is up to us to have the right set-up to get into the groove and have the confidence."
Lost chances
Vettel reckons Ferrari has had the potential to win all five races held so far this season, which is why he believes there is scope for it to feel upbeat about its potential.
"I think the most important is that we were there," he said, when asked about if he needed to strike back with a win soon. We were there in all five races and we could have won all five if things were turning out a bit differently. But we didn't.
"Sometimes we ended up being on the unluckier side, sometimes not, but I think we have a long season ahead of us. Stuff like that will even out, but the most important thing is that we were there.
"We have had scrappy Fridays, rough Saturdays but we were always there in the race and that is what matters. It proves we have a strong package, a strong car, and we are doing the right thing. I am not so worried.
"We have got the points we deserved so far and other people did just a better job, but we have plenty to look forward to as well."
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