Sebastian Vettel says Ferrari should not skip stages in its effort to challenge Mercedes for the world title, despite Maranello exceeding expectations in its recovery last year.
Coming off a disappointing 2014 campaign, both the German and his new team had reasonable ambitions but quickly emerged as the reigning champions’ closest rivals.
Vettel’s speed and consistency earned him three wins, another ten podium finishes, and one pole position, while also keeping him in the title hunt deep into the season. Although the four-time word champion is eager to add a fifth crown to his tally, he remains aware of the timeframe such endeavour requires.
“The temptation is naturally great to go for the biggest prize right away, but we must not forget all the little steps along the way,” Vettel wrote in a column for German publication TZ.
“There was a huge overhaul last winter: a new driver coming in, but also a lot of new people who joined the team and many who changed posts.”
Vettel’s move to Maranello represented a major step in his career as the ex-Red Bull star broke ties with a programme that had propelled him on top of the world. The 28-year-old explains that he had to adapt to his new surroundings.
“At Ferrari the corporate culture is different, so you first have to get used to it.
“I was initially a bit surprised, but I think I've learned my role and will continue to learn.
“We are on the right track and the things that were perhaps still a bit rough at the beginning have already become smoother and work better. I think everything is slowly coming together quite well, step by step.”
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