F1 News, Reports and Race Results

Vettel's focus crucial to winning the title - Villeneuve

There is no doubting Sebastian Vettel's commitment to F1, yet pundit Jacques Villeneuve believes any loss of focus on the German's part could ultimately cost him the title.

Vettel's determination out on the race track transpires not only through his performance but also through his emotional outbursts when events turn against him, as the Ferrari driver's run-in with Lewis Hamilton in Baku earlier this year demonstrated.

The current leader of the drivers' championship will face the momentous task of keeping Hamilton at bay when the action resumes at Spa in two weeks.

While both drivers will rely on the level of performance of their cars to achieve success, Villeneuve also sees the necessity for Vettel to sustain his focus as paramount to winning the title this season, with any slackening of his sharpness likely resulting in its loss. 

"When he's in the car, nothing else matters and that is something that can backfire," says Villeneuve.

"He's very focused on what he does, even perhaps a bit too much.

"If there is a risk for Vettel, it's not a repeat of a Bakou-like incident, but rather that he may wear himself out," adds the Canadian.

"It's very difficult to maintain such a level of concentration for the entire season. Especially as it is a long one."

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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.

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