Aston Martin want ‘earlier’ 2023 talks with Vettel

Jamie Woodhouse
Sebastian Vettel on the starting grid at Monza. Italy September 2021

Aston Martin driver Sebastian Vettel on the starting grid ahead of the Italian Grand Prix. Italy September 2021

Aston Martin boss Otmar Szafnauer admits he would like to conclude contract talks with Sebastian Vettel far earlier for 2023.

After his six-year spell with Ferrari came to an end, Vettel made the move to Aston Martin for 2021, giving the team a proven winner as they marked their return to Formula 1.

Behind the scenes, Aston Martin have been busy making key recruitments to set themselves up for a future title bid, the latest being ex-McLaren boss Martin Whitmarsh.

But on the track there was also an important piece of business to conclude, that being extending Vettel’s contract for 2022 with confirmation finally arriving on September 16.

That news dispelled rumours of a rift between the two parties, and now full focus can turn to the new regulations for 2022 – a huge opportunity for all midfield teams.

Of course, in such an important season, further uncertainty over Vettel’s future would not be ideal, so Aston Martin will look to swiftly conclude negotiations over 2023.

“We’ll do that earlier next year. It will help you guys, too. Less questions,” Szafnauer is quoted as saying by GPFans.

Sebastian Vettel in his Aston Martin cockpit.
Sebastian Vettel prepares for a run in his Aston Martin.

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Vettel is considered an important part of Aston Martin’s future, so if the 2022 campaign goes to plan then it is likely the four-time former World Champion will be retained for 2023.

However, Szafnauer said he has not yet taken the thought of simplifying talks with Vettel over 2023 into account, but it is something he will consider over the Christmas period.

“I haven’t even considered it. We’ve just got through this, but good question – let me ponder over that over Christmas,” he replied when asked if the target is for more straightforward talks with Vettel over 2023.

 

“We usually don’t disclose, out of respect for Seb, the details of his contract and the things we negotiated.

“We like Seb, he likes us and let’s see what happens. Like I said, even over Christmas we could contemplate that stuff.

“Let’s have a good year in 2022 and then decide.”

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