Aston Martin have pledged to offer Sebastian Vettel a new long-term contract – but there is no timeframe for his renewal.
The German is one of several drivers across the grid out of contract at the end of the year, and so speculation over his future is likely to take centre stage as Formula 1 silly season approaches. The 34-year-old has been in the sport for 15 years, but the rumour mill has suggested he might be ready to hang up his race overalls.
Vettel has seen no reason to rush a decision and has been coy on the subject when asked in recent weeks, but his team have been more clear about what they want. Aston Martin chief Mike Krack says there is no rush, but confirmed that he is keen to secure the German's signature for a few more years.
"We were always clear that if he wants to continue, we would like him to stay for long, yes," he told reporters. "We are talking. We have a very, very good relationship, and it is not that we have to set each other deadlines.
"Obviously at one point, if we drag that too long, we will also be running into trouble, and he's aware of that. But they are very trustworthy discussions that we are having. From that point of view, it's all good."
After missing the first two races of the season, Vettel initially found it difficult to adapt to his new car after a major change in the technical regulations came into force. Even when he was driving to his full ability, it was clear that Aston Martin were way off the pace.
But the team has arguably been one of the most improved in terms of car performance as the season has gone on, especially after introducing a significant upgrade at the Spanish Grand Prix. More new parts are on the way for this weekend's race at Silverstone, the hope being that things will get even better for Vettel and team-mate Lance Stroll.
After finishing sixth in Baku, Vettel appears to be taking advantage of the improvements that he demanded earlier in the year when discussing his Aston Martin future. Krack is hopeful that the former Red Bull racer can see the progress that has been made, and that it will help sway his mind when deciding his F1 future.
"For us, we have always said that we want to improve the car, and I think Barcelona was the first step," added the Luxembourger. "I would like to show him another step, and then we can talk, maybe then I can, his desire to do it is a bit better."
