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Vettel in Senna's league - Ascanelli

ESPNF1 Staff
April 21, 2011 « Button learning 'new style of racing' | »
Sebastian Vettel won his first world title at five years younger than Ayrton Senna © Getty Images
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Sebastian Vettel is in the same league as triple world champion Ayrton Senna, according to Toro Rosso director Giorgio Ascanelli.

Ascanelli worked with Vettel during his time at Toro Rosso in 2007 and 2008, and had previously worked with Senna in his McLaren days. Having been able to see both of the drivers at close quarters, Ascanelli said that they both delivered "perfection", while also adding that seven-time world champion Michael Schumacher - who he worked alongside at Ferrari - was less naturally gifted then either Vettel or Senna.

"I am very lucky," Ascabelli told Sport Bild. "Twice in my life I have experienced perfection; once with Senna, again with Vettel. In one respect Michael was different because he had to work harder for his success than did Senna and Vettel. With those two it was something else."

Although stopping short of making similar comparisons, Gerhard Berger said he felt that the championship leader was now the most complete racer on the grid.

"Before the season began I thought Alonso was the best driver, but maybe now it's Sebastian," Berger said.

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