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Montezemolo still courts Vettel

Luca di Montezemolo: "Michael [Schumacher] told me many years ago that coming from karts, Vettel had the most potential of any young driver and he was right" © Press Association

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• Drivers:
• Fernando Alonso
• |
• Lewis Hamilton
• |
• Luca di Montezemolo
• |
• Sebastian Vettel

• Teams:
• Ferrari

Luca di Montezemolo says he sees Sebastian Vettel and Lewis Hamilton as "perfect for Ferrari in the future" and would pick Vettel of the two to replace Fernando Alonso.

Vettel has long been linked with a move to Ferrari in 2014, but having himself categorically stated that he has no agreement to join the team Vettel was also rejected as an option by Montezemolo while Alonso is still at the team. However, looking to the future when Alonso may no longer drive for Ferrari, Montezemolo said that both Vettel and Hamilton were prime candidates to replace him and explained why he would go for Vettel in a straight choice between the two.

"Between all the drivers, Vettel and Hamilton could be perfect for Ferrari in the future, with one difference - Vettel is younger," Montezemolo was quoted by the BBC. "First of all, of all the drivers, we have the best - in terms of speed, intelligence in the race, and a capability to work with the team.

"When you have the best driver you have to put him in the best condition to succeed, to win and have a good environment without peer troubles. But if Alonso decided to go to live in Hawaii with the girlfriend, I have no doubt that for human and professional reasons [I would choose] Vettel. He would be very good for us.

"I like Vettel, because he is not presumptuous. He wants to win but he is not arrogant. Michael [Schumacher] told me many years ago that coming from karts, Vettel had the most potential of any young driver and he was right."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.