Grand Prix of Bahrain

Vettel 'surprised' by Button's McLaren move

Monday 23rd November 2009

Sebastian Vettel admits he was "surprised" by Jenson Button's decision to join McLaren but is looking forward to seeing how the World Champ fares against Lewis Hamilton.

Last week, reigning F1 World Champion Button announced he was leaving Brawn GP and heading to McLaren in a three-year deal worth less than what Brawn GP had offered him.

The decision came as a surprise to many in the paddock with Vettel, who finished runner-up to Button in the 2009 title race, admitting he too did not expect the Brit to leave Brawn.

"I think it was a surprise to everyone," the 22-year-old told Autosport.

"Brawn GP, now Mercedes GP, was very very strong this year. They won the Divers' and Constructors' Championships. They had a very good car, a good team and it's always a surprise if a champion, in a champion team, is leaving.

"You don't know if things will change completely next year, but in that regard for Brawn GP it was a very positive thing to happen that Mercedes is now taking over and it's a manufacturer team.

"So it was a surprise and for next year they're going to be strong. McLaren always has been. This year they were struggling a little bit but I think looking back they've always been strong."

The German, though, is eagerly anticipating the battle between Button and his new team-mate Hamilton, however, admits that latter could have the upper hand given that he has been with McLaren since 2007.

"I think it will be interesting," Vettel said. "They're obviously both English and McLaren is an English team. Lewis knows the team very well, already for a couple of years now, Jenson is the new one coming in, so we will see."

Post to del.icio.us

E-mail Article Print-Friendly Version Subscribe to News RSS Feed