Vettel: 'Nothing speaks against a new deal with Ferrari'

Sebastian Vettel's public comments in Baku appear to show that the German driver is nearing a deal to extend his stay at Ferrari next year.

The four-time world champion had been rather uncommunicative about his 2018 prospects recently, claiming it was early days but also that it felt strange to be without a contract for next season.

Based on what he just told Italy's La Gazetta dello Sport however, positive talks are likely underway although a could still be some time before a successful conclusion is reached

"I have nothing to complain about," he said.

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"Usually Germans always complain, even when they're on holiday in Italy and the food and atmosphere are fantastic. But in this sense, I am not very German.

"I am happy with Ferrari. There is nothing that speaks against it (a new deal). I think there will be no surprises but there is also no rush."

Vettel alluded to more pressing issues - his fight in the world championship - as a reason for a delayed decision.

"It's not that we are waiting, I think the daily business is simply more important at the moment," Vettel added.

"It is nice if the president is behind me, but it's not something we have to do now in the next few days.

"This also affects our team boss Maurizio Arrivabene and myself as well, and at the moment we have our hands full and it's not the first thing on the list."

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.