Vettel: I feel part of Ferrari now
Sebastian Vettel says he now feels an integral part of the Ferrari Formula 1 team following his first victory with the Italian outfit in Malaysia.
Photo by: XPB Images
The four-time champion gave the Maranello-based team its first win in nearly two years on Sunday, but admitted he still found it odd to see himself dressed in red after so many years at Red Bull.
Vettel addressed Ferrari's staff in Maranello on Wednesday, and said Sunday's win was very special for him.
"It was a very emotional moment," said Vettel. "I have won many races, but the first one with Ferrari is very, very special.
"On Sunday night I wanted to celebrate with the mechanics and I said to them, 'thanks a lot, but I want to be one of you, no more no less'.
"I am part of the team and, even if out on track, I'm alone, I know that really I never am, because I am always with you.
"I want to thank you for giving me a nice car and I think, in fact I know, that we will experience many more great moments together.'"
Team principal Maurizio Arrivabene believes the win was also emotional for Vettel because he had managed to emulated his friend and childhood hero Michael Schumacher.
"I think that, the 'Forza Ferrari!' from Seb over the radio immediately after taking the chequered flag, was not just for the achievement of a childhood dream, but also for memories of the moments spent with another great champion, who won so much for Ferrari, namely Michael and above all there was the joy of being there with all of you," Arrivabene said.
"You have been here for such a long time and you deserve it."
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