Sebastian Vettel leafs with Silver

Sebastian Vettel has today been awarded Germany’s highest honour for sporting achievement, the Silver Laurel leaf.

Germany’s acting President, Horst Seehofer presented the driver with the award in Berlin this morning highlighting his ’strength of character’ as he pinned the leaf to Seb’s dinner jacket. He also commented: "Despite all the top places and trophies, you have remained down to earth and modest, and millions of fans appreciate that in you."

Seb described the award as a "very great honour" and went on to reiterate its significance for his long-running cup and trophy collection hobby : "You perhaps know that I like to collect cups or trophies, so this of course is something very special."

The only other German racer to have been presented with the award was Seb’s childhood hero Michael Schumacher.