Aki Hintsa made Vettel ’better man’

Sebastian Vettel has added his own tribute to former McLaren doctor Aki Hintsa, who sadly passed away last week at the age of 58.

Lewis Hamilton, who made his debut for McLaren in 2007, gave an emotional and fitting farewell to the Finn in the Thursday press conference in Abu Dhabi.

But in truth, drivers up and down the pitlane also knew him well, including Sebastian Vettel who got his F1 fitness up to speed with Dr Hintsa as a 20-year-old rookie.

"We met a long time ago and he was ready to help me even though he had no reason to," Vettel told the Finnish broadcaster MTV in Abu Dhabi.

"I feel that he not only made me a better driver, but also a better man," the German added.

"And Aki not only helped me, but many people.

"We are here in the paddock for a short time, and we all wear different coloured shirts, but Aki never looked at them. He had the gift to help people and is still a great inspiration," Vettel added.

Dr Hintsa died after a battle with cancer.