Vettel: "I have absolute confidence that I can become world champion"

Speaking to the Italian branch of motorsport.com, Sebastian Vettel is confident he can still become world champion this year.

His rival, Lewis Hamilton and Mercedes have started the season in style. Hamilton currently tops the championship with a 31 point lead over Vettel.

Even though they might not have the quickest car, Mercedes have dominated proceedings over Ferrari. But that's not dented Vettel's ambitions.

"I am absolutely confident that I can become world champion," Vettel said.

If that will be the case, Vettel will need to see a sudden improvement from Ferrari before Hamilton and Valtteri Bottas run far into the distance. But the German insists that doesn't have to happen this weekend in Baku.

"The turning point does not necessarily have to be Baku. Baku is very different from the other circuits, but when the car improves, you often notice it on the other circuit. This is what we believe in. It has been decided to bring updates because we feel they are helping. We hope to get the same results as in the wind tunnel," Vettel added.