Vettel doesn’t “expect miracles” from new Ferrari F1 chassis

Sebastian Vettel says Ferrari’s decision to give him a new chassis will not guarantee an upturn in performance at this weekend’s Spanish Grand Prix in Barcelona.

Vettel has endured a torrid start to 2020, picking up just ten points in the opening five rounds, whereas team-mate Charles Leclerc sits fourth in the championship with two podium finishes to his name.

Ferrari announced after the 70th Anniversary Grand Prix that it would be replacing Vettel’s chassis for this weekend in Spain after it found a crack in it.

Speaking in Thursday’s press conference, Vettel admitted he doesn’t “expect miracles” from the new chassis.

“Well I think only time can tell but the thinking behind is we changed because the other one was broken," he addede. "We found a little crack after the weekend in Silverstone and it’s back to get repaired and becomes a spare chassis at some point - now the spare becomes my race chassis so we will see. I don’t expect miracles.

“Hopefully have a smoother weekend and a smoother race on Sunday.”

Vettel still expects Ferrari to struggle in Barcelona even though raw engine power isn't key to success in Spain.

“We know this track very well," Vettel explained. "I think you need a little bit more of everything compared to Budapest. I think Budapest is more downforce and not so much efficiency, here it’s a little bit different.

“We will see. It’s very hot this time of year. We’ve not been here in August before, normally three months prior so that could play a factor. I think nevertheless it will be a tough weekend for us to try and put everything together and score some good points.”