Former McLaren communications director Matt Bishop has urged other drivers to fill the ‘void’ created by Sebastian Vettel. The Briton believes Vettel and Lewis Hamilton shared a symbiotic relationship in sport regarding social and political issues.
Vettel, a four-time world champion, has been the voice of F1 several times. He was outspoken about LGBTQ+ rights, climate action and diversity within the sport, making him one of the sport’s greatest off-track heroes.
Bishop praised the natural synergy between Hamilton and Vettel, especially with regard to social and political matters.
The Brit hopes other drivers can fill Vettel’s shoes and form their own off-track alliances. Bishop told Sky Sports News of the matter:
“I think they’re both [Vettel and Hamilton] as someone who ‘gets’ it the same way. By the way, I’m not trying to criticize any of the other drivers. I’ve worked with many of them. It takes all sorts of things to make a world. But I suppose I would like some of the other drivers to consider if maybe they can fill the void that Sebastian has left or created. Because as you say, Lewis is a bit on his own now.”
Sebastian Vettel ‘very happy’ with Aston Martin’s success in Bahrain
Mikey Brown, a mechanic for Aston Martin, has stated that Sebastian Vettel has reached out to him to convey his delight at the team’s strong performance in the 2023 season so far.
The team, headquartered in Silverstone, caused a stir by securing a podium finish with Fernando Alonso in Bahrain’s season opener. After an illustrious career spanning nearly 15 years, Vettel retired from the sport at the end of the 2022 season.
Two-time world champion Fernando Alonso took over and made a stunning debut by setting fire to the track in Sakhir.
Brown stated that the four-time world champion congratulated the team after Sunday’s race. In an interview with Pit stophe claimed:
“Seb got on well with everyone in the team, not just me. He messaged me on Sunday after the race and was very happy for us. Getting this podium was not a product of luck in my humble opinion. It was a deserved podium. We were able to overtake Mercedes and Ferrari and pass them on track. Okay, Leclerc fell out, but it was still a solid podium.”
Sebastian Vettel has no public plans to return to the sport yet. However, fans are hoping that Aston Martin’s recent form will prompt the German to make a comeback at some point in the future.