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October 22, 2016

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Vettel dodges Ferrari talk

UNDER-PRESSURE Sebastian Vettel dodged talk about his prospects of a new contract at Ferrari when he faced the media on Thursday.

Speaking to reporters at the United States Grand Prix, the four-time world champion said he was instead focusing on the final four races of this season — and developments for next year.

“We are all fairly busy at the moment, focusing on the last four races and focusing in particular on next year,” he said.

“I don’t think it’s that important to look into details such as my contract. It’s fine for next year. There are a lot of things happening back in the factory, I know we are very busy and that’s where I want the focus to be,” he said.

Vettel spoke amid mounting speculation over his future following a public warning from Ferrari team chief Maurizio Arrivabene that he is not guaranteed a new deal after next year.

“Sebastian has a contract with us. We work together this year and next year. Then during next year we’ll see,” he told Sky Sports Italia. “Each of us has goals. So it is only right that anyone, no matter who it is, earns their place and their salary.”

Meanwhile, Lewis Hamilton had his phone ready for a picture. Only this time, he handed it off to Romain Grosjean to do the honors. The Haas F1 driver took a picture of Hamilton and Vettel with the packed room of reporters and photographers behind them.

Hamilton noted he waited until the initial round of questions reached every other driver, so as not to disrespect anyone else.

“It’s a good picture. You’re all in it,” Hamilton said.

Grosjean laughed about playing Hamilton’s photographer.

“I took a picture with a brand I’m not allowed to touch because I’m a Microsoft ambassador. I may get in trouble for that,” Grosjean said.

Hamilton took the bulk of the questions during the news conference which ranged from his chances of catching teammate Nico Rosberg for the season championship — he trails by 33 points with four races left — to blocking some reporters from his social media accounts.




 

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