The 2020 F1 season never really treated Sebastian Vettel well, as the ex Ferrari driver fell trap to what ended up being one of the most horrendous seasons in his career.

Subsequently, criticisms engulfed the 4-time world champion, with people claiming that Vettel had traveled past his prime and it was time to retire. However, how drastically have the tables turned since the 2021 Monaco GP!

The Aston Martin driver buried the judgments that he had lost his touch in racing. However, former F1 driver, Nick Heidfeld, opened up that he was never a part of the pool of criticisms. What’s more, he reckoned Vettel was never short of talent in 2020 while racing with Ferrari.

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Heidfeld’s opinion on Vettel’s impressive Turkish GP race with Ferrari

Speaking to Sport1, Heidfeld opined that Vettel showed glimpses of his true talent during the race at Istanbul Park. “At Vettel, you have occasionally seen that the talent is still there,” he said.

“What I remember impressively: the race in Turkey in 2020 when it was wet. There, you could see what kind of vehicle control he has, how well he got on with it.

“And then it dries off and suddenly nothing works anymore. That was weird. But that showed that he actually still has the flair and talent. “

It was yet another disappointing qualifying for Vettel in Turkey last year, as he missed out on reaching Q3. However, the way he crafted his race was quite incredible.

Despite losing his position to Ferrari teammate, Charles Leclerc, the German never gave up and paced himself quite well. Then arrived the opportunistic move from Leclerc that cost him P3, and Vettel was happy to put himself up on the podium alongside his former rival, Lewis Hamilton.

Baku will give Sebastian Vettel a boost: Heidfeld

Heidfeld affirmed that the podium in Baku could be morale-boosting for the 4-time world champion. He further acknowledged that Vettel can cherish being the first Aston Martin driver to secure an F1 podium.

“The good thing about it: It will be more fun for him now. It will give him a boost. Even with a four-time world champion, such a comeback will boost self-confidence,” he said.

“And when he looks back on his career later, he will not only have a few titles but be the first to take an Aston Martin podium. That’s really cool.”

Vettel followed up the Baku podium with a convincing performance in France. Despite qualifying in P12, he managed a brilliant first stint to set himself up for a late charge on much fresher tires.

Ultimately, Vettel brought his Aston Martin home in P9, making it his third top 10 finish in a row. Hence, with his confidence on the rise, can he produce more such strong performances over the upcoming race weekends?

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