‘No fear’ for Vettel as GP debut looms
The German youngster has won his chance after BMW-Sauber regular Robert Kubica was ruled out following his huge accident in Canada less than a week ago.
"I am pleased of course but you never want to see your teammates have accidents," he told reporters amid an unfamiliar flurry of media attention at the US grand prix venue.
"Sunday though will be a special day — to be honest I can still hardly believe it.
"You always know that racing in formula one is your target but it is a strange feeling when you finally get there.
"But I don't have any fear. I am looking forward to it."
Vettel, BMW's primary test and reserve driver, explained that after taking the crucial phone call from Mario Theissen at the circuit on Thursday, he immediately called his parents back in Germany.
Then, the real work began. He was fitted to Kubica's cockpit by mechanics, and officially weighed by the FIA. Then he set off on foot to learn the twists and turns of the US grand prix layout.
Team boss Theissen, meanwhile, said he had not set any targets for Vettel to aim for this weekend.
"I hope he can demonstrate the quality of our car here," the German chief said, "but it would be wrong to put any more pressure on him."
Auto Motor und Sport, meanwhile, quoted a nonetheless disappointed Kubica as wishing Vettel "all the best.
"For him it is a great opportunity, and I am sure that he will use it well."