STORY OF THE DAY: Vettel Opens Ferrari’s New Challenge

Sebastian Vettel won the 2017 Australian Grand Prix at Albert Park in the number 5 Ferrari SF70H. Starting second, he defeated pole-sitter Lewis Hamilton and Valtteri Bottas, giving Ferrari its first victory since the 2015 Singapore Grand Prix and taking the early lead in the Drivers’ Championship.

Vettel remained close enough to Hamilton during the opening stint to keep strategic pressure on Mercedes. Hamilton stopped early and returned behind Max Verstappen, losing time while attempting to pass. Vettel extended his stint, delivered quick laps in clear air and emerged from his own stop ahead, after which he controlled the race to the finish.

The SF70H was designed for the wider cars and tyres introduced under the 2017 regulations. Powered by Ferrari’s 1.6-litre turbocharged V6 hybrid unit, it featured a broad floor, complex sidepod inlets and significantly increased aerodynamic load. Its strong balance and tyre management made it an immediate challenger to Mercedes.

Born in Heppenheim, Vettel developed through karting and the Red Bull junior programme before winning four consecutive World Championships. He joined Ferrari in 2015 and quickly returned the team to the winners’ circle. His Melbourne success launched his strongest championship campaign for the Scuderia.