Ferrari Chairman Sergio Marchionne says he expects Sebastian Vettel to emerge as a “less emotive” force in 2018, having learned from the setbacks of 2017.
Vettel took three victories from the opening six events in 2017 to open a 25-point advantage in the standings, but was reeled in as Mercedes and Lewis Hamilton hit form.
Vettel’s prospects were undone by his actions in Azerbaijan – when he received a penalty for swiping Hamilton as they prepared for a restart – and in Singapore, when he was caught up in the start clash.
Vettel’s bid was then all but ended by reliability setbacks in Malaysia and Japan, but Marchionne expects the German to emerge stronger heading into the 2018 campaign.
“Sebastian is a guy who studies a lot, studies himself and is committed, therefore, I think that we will see less of his emotive side,” said Marchionne at Ferrari’s traditional Christmas lunch.
“I think he has learned enough. Plus, there were plenty of opportunities for him to get annoyed, as he’s had a couple of rather difficult seasons, this year and the previous one.
“I continue to maintain we have an obligation towards these drivers, to give them a car with which they can race the others.
“I think we gave them a great car in 2017 and so, from now on, it’s down to him.”
Marchionne also backed Kimi Räikkönen, despite Finn finishing over 100 points down on Vettel, without taking a victory, pointing to his pole position lap around the streets of Monaco.
“As for Kimi, I believe he is really great, truly talented and I have never doubted his abilities,” emphasised Marchionne.
“I tell you, he’s a really top guy, otherwise he wouldn’t have taken pole at a track like Monaco.
“I think Maurizio [Arrivabene] has done a great job with the drivers and that’s not an easy task.”
