Loss of Monza would be ‘ripping our hearts out’ according to Vettel

Sebastian Vettel has called on F1 supremo Bernie Ecclestone to keep Monza on the series calendar amid rumors that the longtime home of the Italian Grand Prix could be dropped in 2016.

The German finished second behind Lewis Hamilton at Monza, leading the charge for Scuderia Ferrari while teammate Kimi Raikkonen grabbed fifth.

The uncertainty for over the future for one of F1’s most historic and prestigious venues as the host of the Italian Grand Prix has also put other tracks, such as Imola, back into consideration. Matteo Renzi, the prime minister of Italy, was seen around the paddock Sunday morning to lobby Ecclestone for a contract extension.

Following spirited cheers from the tifosi, Vettel does not believe the iconic circuit should fall by the wayside of the F1 calendar.

“Look at this,” said Vettel, noting the sea of fans under the podium. “This says it all! This is the best second place I have ever had, the emotions I have.

“If we take this away from the calendar for any shitty money reason you are basically ripping our hearts out. It makes it so much worthwhile [when] you stand on the grid. It was an incredible day.”