10/09/2020
NEWS STORY
Racing Point has confirmed that Sebastian Vettel will partner Lance Stroll next season when the team becomes Aston Martin
Ahead of Aston Martin's return to the Formula 1 grid, the signing of Vettel is a clear statement of the team's ambition to establish itself as one of the most competitive names in the sport.
"As a four-time World Champion, Sebastian brings a fresh mind-set to the team," reads the official announcement. "He is one of the most accomplished and respected drivers in world motorsport and knows what it takes to win at the highest level.
"At the time of writing, he stands as a 53-time race winner, putting him third on the all-time list of Grand Prix victors with a further 67 podium finishes to his name.
"His qualifying speed is equally impressive, starting on the front row of the grid 101 times throughout his career to date - 57 of which were from pole position.
"Having claimed four consecutive titles with Red Bull Racing between 2010 - 2013 and multiple Grands Prix victories with Scuderia Ferrari in the years since, Sebastian's experience and leadership qualities make him the perfect driver to help the team achieve its ambitions.
"Everybody at Silverstone is hugely excited by this new,2 said Otmar Szafnauer. "Sebastian is a proven champion and brings a winning mentality that matches our own ambitions for the future as Aston Martin F1 Team. On a Saturday or Sunday afternoon, Sebastian is one of the best in the world, and I can't think of a better driver to help take us into this new era. He will play a significant role in taking this team to the next level."
"I am pleased to finally share this exciting news about my future," added Vettel. "I'm extremely proud to say that I will become an Aston Martin driver in 2021. It's a new adventure for me with a truly legendary car company. I have been impressed with the results the team has achieved this year and I believe the future looks even brighter.
"The energy and commitment of Lawrence (Stroll) to the sport is inspiring and I believe we can build something very special together. I still have so much love for Formula 1 and my only motivation is to race at the front of the grid. To do so with Aston Martin will be a huge privilege."
Check out our Thursday gallery from Mugello, here.