Vettel: 'It's a sad world in some ways'

Sebastian Vettel is not only involved in racing, but also in the political debate. Together with Lewis Hamilton, he spoke out in Hungary about gay rights in the country.

The German feels it's only natural to use his position to stand up for others. "There are many big problems that you cannot escape from as a world citizen, because we are all affected by them," he told Sport1.de. "After all the experiences and mistakes of the past, there really shouldn't be any excuses today to hold on to exclusion. We know how to do things better, and everyone can contribute in small or large ways. Change starts in the mind!"

In doing so, Vettel also looks at his own sport. "We all look at the nice slogans on the carpet before the race ("We race as one", ed.), and yet for some people it seems to be a problem. It's a sad world in some ways, but if it helps to support people who are suffering in countries that are part of the EU, I'm happy to express my support."

The four-time world champion will be in action with Aston Martin this season. In Hungary, he finished second, but a disqualification meant that he missed out on the prize after all.