Sebastian Vettel has said that he wants Ferrari to focus on its 2017 car above all else.

While he played down comments made by team boss Maurizio Arrivabene in Japan, the fact is that some are now wondering if the marriage between the Italian team and four-time world champion Sebastian Vettel may not be as happy as once thought.

Speaking at Suzuka, the Italian called on Vettel to focus on his own job rather than attempting to do a Michael Schumacher and reorganise the team. In a further surprise move the team boss, when asked about Vettel's contract renewal, made it clear that nothing should be taken for granted and that Vettel must "earn his place and salary".

Asked in Austin today if he has begun talks on a new contract, his current contract expiring at the end of next season, the German appeared to echo his boss's word.

"I think we all are fairly busy at this time to focus on the four races we have left and focus, in particular, to prepare for next year," said the German, "that's where the main focus lies.

"I don't think it is that important to look into details such as my contract," he continued. "It is fine for next year.

"As I said, with a lot of things happening back at the factory, back in Maranello, I know they are very, very busy and that's where I want their focus to be."

Check out our Thursday gallery from Austin, here.