Vettel - Still a long way to go

German not placing great emphasis on testing times

Last updated: 4th March 2009   Subscribe to RSS Feed

Vettel - Still a long way to go

Vettel: Red Bull not the favourites

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Red Bull have a long way to go before they can start challenging for the World Championship, according to Sebastian Vettel.

The Milton Keynes-based outfit are coming off a disappointing eighth-place finish in last year's Constructors' Championship, but they head into the new campaign high on confidence after recruiting Vettel during the off-season.

The German is one of the rising stars in Formula One after giving Toro Rosso their maiden pole position and race victory in last year's Italian Grand Prix.

Vettel has said Red Bull are working hard to improve, but nevertheless conceded they are still a long way behind the likes of Ferrari and McLaren Mercedes.

"We are not the favourites - the favourites are red and silver - they are Ferrari and McLaren," the 21-year-old told autosport.com.

"It is a long way to get to that position, but we are working hard. We have great potential, the car seems to be alright so let's see.

"If we have a package that is strong enough to win, then we have to win - otherwise we are doing a bad job."

Red Bull's new Renault-powered RB5 has impressed so far during pre-season winter testing.

However, Vettel added it was important not to read too much into the results.

"It is only my second year so I don't have a great deal of experience, but for instance last year Williams were looking very, very strong before the season," he said.

"In Australia they finished on the podium, and a couple of weeks later no one was speaking about them any more.

"So in winter testing, you always have to keep your feet on the ground. There are a lot of things coming for everybody.

"There are new bits for Australia, so we have to wait until then."

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