Hakkinen: Vettel's style a lot like Schumacher's

Mika Hakkinen fought against Michael Schumacher ferociously for the Formula One drivers championship for a number of years in the late 90s and early 2000s, and having seen Sebastian Vettel fight Lewis Hamilton in a similar way, the Finn believes the two Germans have a very similar style of driving.

Speaking to Speedweek, Hakkinen said that Vettel's driving style bore resemblance with his compatriot's.

"I first think of Sebastian’s driving style as unique, but the similarities to Michael are there," he said.

"He always braked at the same point, always drove the same line, accelerated very sensitively, everything controlled.

"It’s a very good, clear, clean and aggressive driving style. Even over the curbs, he always has the car under control."

Hakkinen also commented on Hamilton's style, believing the Mercedes man's ability to push further means he can conjure up a supreme lap out of nothing.

"Lewis always tries to drive a bit more extreme. Very controlled, but he pushes the car more to the limit and risks much more," Hakkinen added.

"But it is not careless, he makes conscious decisions. If he does not go off track, a super lap comes from his effort. You can take that risk, but not always, otherwise you’ll spin sooner or later."

Hakkinen went on to explain that the fight between Ferrari and Mercedes has made F1 much more exciting, something he felt the sport desperately needed.

"Formula 1 has not been as exciting for a long time now.

"Rosberg against Hamilton was anything but boring, but the number of fans was reduced by the duel within one team.

"Now Mercedes against Ferrari, plus the young talents like (Max) Verstappen – now it’s exciting."