Binotto says Vettel was impressed: "Seb was surprised by Leclerc"

One of the most high profile seats is still available for the 2021 Formula 1 season. Sebastian Vettel is yet to secure his place on the grid for next season, but team boss Mattia Binotto doesn't want the four-time world champion to leave. 

New contract for Vettel

“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. 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," Binotto told Formula 1's official website. 

Although the four-time world champion was defeated by Charles Leclerc, Binotto is still very fond of his driver. "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. It’s in his hands. So I think he’s very motivated," he added. 

Leclerc vs Vettel

The 2019 car was one that was not tailored for Vettel, but that will be different in 2020. 

"Last year was important for him. Charles' performance took him by surprise. It’s not the case anymore, he knows where the benchmark is and he knows what he needs to do, so I think he has prepared himself very well through the winter. He spent last year trying to understand what went wrong and making sure he does better this year.”