Vettel must ‘earn’ Ferrari extension

Ferrari have told Sebastian Vettel that he is not guaranteed an extension into 2018, rather he has to “earn” a new contract.

Vettel is having a tough time over at Maranello this season as the four-time World Champion has yet to win a grand prix, never mind play a role in the title fight.

His results have seen him fall to fifth in the Drivers’ standings where he trails team-mate Kimi Raikkonen.

And although Vettel still has a year to run on his Ferrari contract, team boss Maurizio Arrivabene has warned that he is not guaranteed an extension.

“Sebastian has a contract with us. We work together his year and next year. Then during next year we’ll see,” he told Sky Sports Italia.

“Each of us has goals, I have them, the team has them, Sebastian has them, we all have them.

“So it is only right that anyone, no matter who it is, earns their place and their salary.”

Asked whether the Scuderia could boost Vettel’s confidence by handing a new deal, the Italian replied: “I do not think people can be conquered with renewals.

“Sebastian just needs to focus on the car. He is a person who gives so much, and sometimes this means he is interested in a bit of everything – so sometimes you have to re-focus him, remind him to be focused on the main job.

“He does not do it in a polemical spirit, but because he is totally immersed in the family that is the Ferrari team.”