Vettel has "no problem" being the number two F1 driver in Germany
Sebastian Vettel has "no problem" being Germany's number two F1 driver and admits he will always be in the footsteps of the "unique" Michael Schumacher. Throughout his childhood, Schumacher remained a very important role model for a young Vettel and a main ambition was fulfilled when he signed for Ferrari ahead of the 2015 season.
Vettel is at the half-way point of Schumacher's record of seven world championships, but the 33-year-old hasn't won the sport's biggest prize since 2013. The kind of success Vettel achieved at Aston Martin Red Bull Racing never captured the German fans as strongly as his predecessor and he understands why.
“I am and will continue to be Germany's number two in Formula 1 and I have no problem with that," he told German broadcaster ARD.
"I believe Schumacher's achievements were unique and remain unique. It was he who made the breakthrough in F1 racing in Germany. Anyone who came after Schumacher is in line behind him. I see it very naturally and I am proud of my home country. I have no problem saying that I am proud to drive for Germany."