Sebastian Vettel takes the Mario Andretti trophy!!

Sebastian Vettel receiving the Mark Andretti trophy!!

30/1/11,

Sebastian was presented with another trophy this week – this one of special significance as it was handed over by the man whose name that trophy bears: former F1 champion and Nascar racer Mario Andretti.

The racer flew from his home in the States especially to give Seb the award, it’s the first time a non-American has been honoured. And there was a special reason why.

Andretti said: “I follow F1 very closely. At one point, Sebastian was almost out of the championship running, but he didn't give up; he fought until the end. I watched him with respect and admiration - greatly appreciating what he was doing. He was at the top of his game. It took concentration that was all-consuming. It took fierce determination and tenacity.

“At the world class level, it truly is mind over muscle, mind over competition, mind over everything. That's why nobody deserves this trophy more than him. He is a perfect example of what this award is about. It's about someone who perseveres.”

As well as handing over the trophy in Milton Keynes in front of our mechanics, Mario had the chance to tour our Factory and then take a turn on the team simulator. The track he drove was Barcelona – not one he’d ever raced at, but demonstrated that, though it was some years since he had raced in anger, he was determined as ever to master the circuit."

Sebastian said: "Receiving this award is an honour in itself but being handed it by Mario made it even more special. He’s one of the greatest racing drivers of all time and is a real legend in the United States."

The Mario Andretti Trophy is awarded on the recommendation of a panel which includes former racers Andretti himself, Dan Gurney and Sir Stirling Moss to the racer who puts a premium on winning races, shines on motorsports’ biggest stages and does it all with a measure of sportsmanship and class.

Seb gets to keep the bronze trophy which features eight cars, including six of the most important in Mario’s spectacular racing career.