Sebastian Vettel expressed elation as he claimed his first podium in Aston Martin colours at Formula 1’s Azerbaijan Grand Prix.
Vettel started from outside of the top 10 but ran a long first stint to emerge firmly in contention for the points, before passing Charles Leclerc and Pierre Gasly following a Safety Car period.
Vettel was subsequently promoted to third spot when long-time race leader Max Verstappen crashed out due to a tyre failure.
Third became second at the standing restart when Lewis Hamilton sailed straight on at Turn 1, and Vettel maintained that position across the remainder of proceedings.
It marked Aston Martin’s first podium in Formula 1 history, as well as Vettel’s best result since 2019.
“It means a great deal, obviously,” said Vettel. “It was a tough start for us, but it was a great race, we had good pace and that was the key.
“I had a good start picked up positions straight away, looked after my tyres and as soon as everyone went into the pit I had really good pace to overcut, I think Yuki [Tsunoda], at least.
“And then the restart worked brilliantly for me, got another two positions there.
“Let’s be honest, we obviously had fresher tyres that helped with warming up and switch on, so a great day and I’m over the moon.
“It’s a great podium and we didn’t expect that when we came here but even on Friday, even though we were nowhere, I was feeling quite relaxed. Yesterday we didn’t quite get it but today we did.”
Vettel’s team-mate, Lance Stroll, retired mid-distance owing to a suspected tyre failure.
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