Despite mistakes, Vettel not in need of a head doctor

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Despite an error-prone season that has once again undermined his fight for the world title, Sebastian Vettel feels no need to consult with a sports psychologist to help him cut out his unforced mistakes.

The Ferrari driver's deficit in the championship standings to arch-rival Lewis Hamilton swelled to 40 points in Singapore.

While there is no disputing the Mercedes driver's performances lately, the bulk of that gap is largely due to previous costly mishaps on the part of Vettel, with big points dilapidated at Hockenheim but also at Monza where he found himself spun to the back of the field after trying to force the issue with Hamilton on the opening lap.

Speaking to Auto Bild, Vettel was confronted with his clear tendency to occasionally trip over himself and was asked if he ever considered employing a sports psychologist to help him achieve a better personal balance under stress.

Struggling Vettel wishes he could seek out Schumacher for advice

While open to the idea, Vettel doubted he could find someone who would fit the bill for his specific needs.

"Of course I have pressure," acknowledged the German, "but most of the time I put it on myself. If you know what you can do and you do not achieve it, then you are not satisfied.

"I find the idea very interesting, but I have not met a person that I think can help. I've already researched it a bit, so the whole topic has not passed me by.

"When you have stress, you need to find balance," he added.

"I have developed things that work for me. And I have enough self-discipline, so as not to be confused."

As the recipient of much criticism following his mistakes, mainly from the unswerving Italian media, Vettel insists he is immune to the attacks.

"In my spare time I hardly read articles about Formula 1, more about football. I do not let criticism get to me and that saves me dealing with it," he said.

"Generally, my motto is: 'You're never as good as people say and you're never as bad as they say'."

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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.