Vettel: “Schumacher and Massa should not be underestimated!”

Sebastian Vettel believes that Felipe Massa and Michael Schumacher will get back to the form they previously showed in F1 and anticipates that Fernando Alonso and Lewis Hamilton will play an important role in 2011.

Felipe Massa and Michael Schumacher had a modest 2010 Formula 1 season, looking unable to adapt to the new technical regulations.

Even so, from Vettel’s point of view, the tow ex-Ferrari team-mates are still fierce rivals in the race for the world title, because of their past performances.

“Massa didn’t have a good season but no one should underestimate him; it’s not so long ago that he was really strong [the Brazilian fought for the world title in 2008].  I think neither of them have forgotten how to drive. Schumacher’s history is too great to write him off, and Nico Rosberg has also showed us his strength,” said the German for Sport Bild magazine.

Still, when it comes to the world title fight, Vettel admits that Fernando Alonso and Lewis Hamilton are his main rivals. “Alonso for sure, and Hamilton is without question one of the best drivers. If our car is good enough, he [Webber] will get involved again,” Vettel added.