I’m no Schumi yet, insists starlet Vettel

SEBASTIAN VETTEL has slammed as “ridiculous” comparisons to seven-times world champion Michael Schumacher after Sunday’s stunning Italian Grand Prix triumph.

At just 21 years and 74 days, Vettel became the youngest winner in Formula One history, immediately sparking talk of how he shapes up to fellow German and close friend Schumacher.

Toro Rosso co-owner Gerhard Berger has already stated Vettel has the potential to now go on and win many races and championships.

Although nicknamed “Baby-Schumi”, Vettel is eager to play down the hype that has engulfed him following a sensational weekend in which he also clinched his maiden pole.

“About this comparison to Michael, first of all you have to realise what this guy achieved in the past,” said Vettel.

“Of current drivers, probably Fernando (Alonso) is the closest as he’s a two-time world champion, so to compare anybody to Michael is ridiculous.

“I’m young and at a very early stage of my career, so I don’t think there’s any need to make a comparison.’’

Next season Vettel switches to sister team Red Bull Racing as replacement for the retiring David Coulthard.

Despite the fact Toro Rosso have usurped Red Bull of late, and are now above them in the constructors’ championship, Vettel is still moving on.

“I am going to race for Red Bull Racing,” insisted Vettel. “I don’t see it as a step backwards, even though we have probably been stronger in the last couple of races.”

Meanwhile Lewis Hamilton has rubbished suggestions the Formula One world title is his to lose. Hamilton emerged from a difficult Italian GP with his championship lead still intact, one he has held since a stunning win at Silverstone in July.

After qualifying a miserable 15th following a wrong tyre call, the 23-year-old then drove a stunning first half of the race at a wet Monza. By the time of what he thought would be his only stop, Hamilton was running second in his McLaren, but an incorrect weather forecast by his team cost him the win as he was forced to pit again.

Although finishing seventh, main championship rival Felipe Massa could only manage sixth in his Ferrari, with Hamilton’s lead now a solitary point.

Hamilton has conceded the race turned into “a damage limitation exercise”, and expressed his relief at still being out in front in the title race.

But as for his to lose, a positive Hamilton replied: “When you’re in the lead, perhaps. But I’m not looking at it that way. Kimi (Raikkonen) is world champion, so it is his championship to lose.”