Vettel: Ferrari ‘can manage’ Russia cold

Editor

Sebastian Vettel is not overly concerned about Ferrari’s prospects in Russia despite the cold temperatures expected to suit Mercedes.

The Silver Arrows have been dominant at the Sochi track since the Russian Grand Prix joined the calendar in 2014, with Hamilton winning back-to-back races before then team-mate Nico Rosberg won in 2016.

And Hamilton was looking forward to returning to the track as he attempts to draw back level with Vettel in the World Championship standings.

“Sochi is a smoother track and less abrasive on the tyres, so they can go quite a long way,” said Hamilton.

“Hopefully we can rely on the pace of our car there rather than our use of the tyres.”

But Vettel believes that his performance in China is sufficient evidence to show that Ferrari are capable of competing in the colder temperatures, too.

“I don’t think so, I think we will manage,” Vettel said when asked if he envisaged Russia being a problem for the Scuderia.

“We managed as well in China and it was quite cold, so I think it will be OK. We’ll see.

“I don’t know the forecast yet, but usually they change. We’ll see when we get there.”