Jackie Stewart Advises Vettel to Get New Manager

Three times F1 champion Jackie Stewart advised “baby Schumacher” Sebastian Vettel to hire a new manager. Having so far been represented by his father, the German driver has had plenty of offers – at least through the media channels – in the last few weeks, and his raise to stardom will necessitate the help of someone who understands the sport better, believes the Scottish ace.

At only 21 years of age, Vettel managed to bring both Toro Rosso and Red Bull Racing their first win in Formula One (during the course of 2008 and 2009) and is regarded as main contender to championship leader Jenson Button for the 2009 F1 title. With McLaren and Ferrari lined up to sign the “new kid in town”, Stewart argued Vettel's steps in the sport should be carefully guided by an experienced manager.

“Up until now he didn't need a manager. But he will not be able to imagine what is going to happen to him if he really becomes a superstar,” said Stewart in an interview for Germany's Auto Motor und Sport.

According to the legendary Scottish driver, F1 stardom will likely come with plenty of new challenges for Vettel, and his future in the sport will nonetheless depend on his choices.

“He will become so big that he needs someone to guide him through the things that, apart from driving, are important. He will be dealing with people like politicians, heads of big companies. He should be prepared for that,” added Stewart.

Vettel is currently under contract with Red Bull Racing until the end of the year, with the Milton Keynes team to have the main option for an extension (which they will most likely use) for an additional year.