Q&A: Sebastian Vettel - EXCLUSIVE.

World Series debutant Sebastian Vettel has a lot to look forward to in 2007, as he bids to go one better than the runner-up position he achieved in the F3 Euroseries last year while at the same time making his mark as BMW-Sauber's third driver in Formula One.

The 19-year-old German will compete for respected outfit Carlin Motorsport in the World Series, what he hopes will provide him with a springboard from which to launch his career in motor racing's uppermost echelon. Here he tells us about his hopes and expectations for the season ahead...

Q:
Sebastian, you are BMW-Sauber's third driver this year. How big an opportunity is that for you?

Sebastian Vettel:
It's fantastic. First of all I can get even more experience in a Formula One car throughout the season, but it's not an easy job. In case anything happens I have to be ready, and fulfil my job without any mistakes at all. It's a big thing, but I'm really looking forward to it.

Q:
You must be very proud and excited to be working with the team now?

SV:
Yes, of course. It's a pleasure. All the guys there are very motivated and looking forward to the new season. It's just great to enter Formula One and see how people work there. There's always a lot of development and new parts coming along and it's just more fun to work in this category.

Q:
How difficult will it be to balance your testing duties with BMW-Sauber in Formula One alongside your racing commitments?

SV:
I don't think it will be a problem. Unfortunately the FIA have restricted testing a bit this year so there's less driving, but this will help me in the World Series. There are no big issues with clashes or anything.

Q:
Last year you finished as runner-up in the F3 Euroseries, having fought Paul di Resta for the crown all season-long. How disappointing was it to ultimately miss out on the title at the end?

SV:
The championship was my target throughout the whole season. Right from winter training and testing the aim was to win the title. It was a bit of an up-and-down season both for him and for me. Of course it was disappointing at the end of the year to finish second, but I think I can still be happy with what I achieved.

Q:
In 2007, as you mentioned, you will be competing in the World Series by Renault. How excited are you about that?

SV:
I'm very, very excited. I love racing.

Q:
How much of a step-up do you think it will be from the F3 Euroseries?

SV:
It's a big step. It's a much bigger car, even bigger than a Formula One car. It has big slick tyres and is a lot of fun to drive. There's no traction control either. It's just an old-fashioned racing car.

Q:
And you feel ready for the challenge ahead?

SV:
I think so. I hope so!