Ecclestone : 'Stop picking on Vettel!'

Bernie Ecclestone had defended Sebastian Vettel amid criticism of the German driver's performance last season.

Ferrari and Vettel failed to win a single race in 2016 and the four-time world champion was out-performed on a number of occasions by team mate Kimi Raikkonen, which is, relatively speaking, not something to be ashamed of.

Vettel was pinpointed by critics however who also underlined the Ferrari drivers' persistent complaining behind the wheel and ongoing rants over the team radio.

"It's not his fault that he's not winning," the F1 supremo told Sport Bild, referring to the German driver.

"It's about the car and the team," Ecclestone insisted.

"Ferrari has fallen back into the time before Schumacher and Todt. There are too many Italians working there.

"Nothing against Italy, but running a team successfully is not in their DNA. Ferrari needs fresh blood. But I'm sure Sebastian is doing everything he can to succeed."

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F1's 86-year-old chief executive also played down rumours Vettel might be looking to jump ship to Mercedes for 2018.

"Sebastian's mission is called Ferrari, because I know that he wants to succeed there first."

However, Mr. 'E' doubts that either Ferrari or Red Bull will be able to stop Mercedes' dominance this year.

"I don't think so," Ecclestone said.

"Their engine will still be the best, giving them a huge advantage. Equalising the situation can only be done with new engine regulations, so we need to do that as soon as possible."

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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.