The Aston Martin driver was in 14th place when he pitted on lap 36, emerging immediately in front of Hamilton, who had just passed Sergio Perez for third.
On his fresh hard tyres Vettel passed through a series of blue flag warnings as he stayed in front of the battling pair for several corners. Perez was able to draw alongside Hamilton and attempt to regain the place before Vettel eventually let them both through.
