Ferrari: Contract talks with Vettel to be resolved 'very soon'

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Ferrari says it expects its contract talks with four-time world champion Sebastian Vettel to be done and dusted "very soon", with the German driver likely to extend his stay with the House of Maranello.

At the end of last year, Ferrari secured the services of Charles Leclerc until the end of the 2024, but Vettel's deal only runs until the end of this season.

From the 32-year-old's retirement from the sport to Ferrari making a bold move for Lewis Hamilton, a whirlwind of speculation has been blowing around the Scuderia.

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But team boss Mattia Binotto's discourse points to a probable Vettel-Leclerc status quo at the Italian outfit for 2021.

"I already mentioned it: Seb is our first option," Binotto said, speaking during on Thursday in Barcelona.

"I think as I always mentioned, that's a great line-up, probably the best we have in F1, of which I'm very happy and very proud to have as Ferrari.

"We are really starting an early discussion with Seb. We all are aware the contract is finishing, but it will come very soon to close the discussion and see what's in the best interest of both of us.

"I think what's more a matter is the project which we are sharing, even our longer-term view, so we will come very soon I am sure to an agreement."

When queried on his future, Vettel admitted the topic wasn't really on his mind.

"Obviously right now we are very busy with other stuff and therefore right now I would say zero. Time will tell but I think it doesn't change anything right now.

"I think we know what we want to achieve, where we want to go and where we are now."

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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.