Vettel on future in F1: "My best time is yet to come"

Four-time champion Sebastian Vettel thinks that the best time of his F1 career hasn't come yet, even though the German won four titles in a row at the start of the decade with Red Bull Racing.

Vettel's last title was five years ago, in 2013. Five years later, he looked to be on his way to make it five titles at the start of the season, but Mercedes driver Lewis Hamilton swung things around as the season progressed. The Brit eventually sealed up his fifth title at the Mexican Grand Prix two weeks ago, winning his second title in a row.

Still, Vettel keeps things in perspective rather than being bitter, and he realises how privileged he is to be where he is.

"I think all of us, who are allowed to drive such a car [at the top of the grid], are very privileged, to fight for victories and podiums is what everyone wants," the 31-year-old told Motorsport-Total in an exclusive interview.

"Of course I'm disappointed when I finish fourth, but it's better than sitting in a car that you can use to be 15th, and I know I'm in a very lucky position.

"I've had an incredible life already. I've fulfilled my dream of becoming an F1 driver, winning a race, winning a championship - I've done it even more than once.

"I drive for Ferrari and hopefully I'll be a world champion at Ferrari soon. I can't wish for more than that."

After that, Vettel got introspective, wondering where he is right now in his career - is he in his prime, or is he past it?

"I often ask myself if this isn't all too much, too much in too little time. I already have a lot of experience, but I'm someone who always looks ahead.

"I think that my best moment is yet to come. I've won races as a Ferrari driver, but we're not world champions. In that, I still have something to look forward to."