Aston Martin F1 team believe Vettel can “bring out the best” in Stroll

Sebastian Vettel’s arrival at Aston Martin’s new-look Formula 1 squad can help “bring out the best” in Lance Stroll, according to team boss Otmar Szafnauer.

Vettel is linking up with the Aston Martin project following its transition from Racing Point to partner new teammate Stroll after Ferrari decided against offering the German a new deal for the upcoming 2021 F1 season.

Aston Martin is confident the four-time world champion can rediscover his best form after two particularly difficult years at Ferrari alongside Charles Leclerc, with Szafnauer tipping Vettel to have a positive influence on Stroll, who claimed his maiden pole position and two podiums on his way to finishing 11th in the 2020 world championship standings.

“It’s hugely exciting for everyone in the team,” Szafnauer said.

“In Sebastian, we have a proven four-time world champion with experience of helping teams become race-winning and championship-contending outfits.

“That’s why he is such an important signing for us. He brings a winning mentality and we will all undoubtedly learn a lot from him on this journey.

“In Lance, we have a young and talented, hard-working driver who enjoyed his best campaign to date last year and really made strides in all areas of his racing.

"We know if we give him the tools, he’s more than capable of helping the team reach its goals.

“We also think Sebastian will bring out the best in Lance, with Lance pushing Sebastian hard in return, so we’re delighted with our 2021 line-up. It’s the ideal blend of experience, race-winning knowhow, and raw talent.”

Szafnauer is convinced Aston Martin can deliver on its ambitious aims this year in order to do the iconic British manufacturer’s name justice.

"Representing such an iconic brand is a huge privilege for every member of the team,” he explained.

"It might sound daunting, but we've been competing in Formula 1 for 30 years [under various names], winning races and taking podiums along the way - often against the odds. We've earned a well-deserved reputation for punching above our weight, so we're confident we can do the Aston Martin name proud right from the get-go."