Ferrari's Sebastian Vettel said he
remains optimistic after losing more ground on Formula One
championship leader Lewis Hamilton despite a stunning drive at
the Malaysian Grand Prix on Sunday.
The German four-time world champion stormed up the field from
last place to finish fourth after starting at the back of the
grid due to an engine problem on Saturday.
He is now 34 points behind Mercedes' Hamilton, who came
second on Sunday behind Red Bill's Max Verstappen, with five
races to go.
Ferrari were particularly unlucky in Malaysia as Kimi
Raikkonen failed to start because of a malfunction.
The Italian glamour team, who failed to score at the previous
race at Singapore, now trail Mercedes by 118 points in the
constructors championship.
"I am still optimistic, because we know that we have a quick
car," said Vettel.
"Of course it was a shame for Kimi who couldn't take the
start, and for me having to begin my race from the back of the
grid.
"We tried to fight for the podium, pushed very hard, but in
the end the tires were starting to give up and we couldn't be
really there.
"However, it is promising to see the car is good, even if
both Kimi and I hit trouble this weekend. I don't know yet if
the issue is the same on both cars, we'll need to have a look.
For sure it's not ideal having one car out yesterday and another
one today.
"So, there's something we need to understand. It's been a
difficult weekend, but nevertheless the speed is there.
"So far we've had a pretty good record for this year
regarding reliability. I am not that worried to be honest, but
we need to get on top of the problem".
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED © Copyright ANSA
