Vettel takes title on final day of drama in Brazil

Red Bull’s Sebastian Vettel won a third consecutive world drivers’ title by three points in the rain-soaked, incident-packed Brazilian GP yesterday.

By the chequered flag of an incident-packed race Vettel was sixth, with championship rival Fernando Alonso second in his Ferrari behind race winner Jenson Button, to take the crown by three points from the Spaniard.

The race at Interlagos proved one of the most dramatic in the sport’s history as the destiny of the title swung one way and another between Red Bull star and Alonso.

The conditions over Sao Paulo played havoc, resulting in a catalogue of incidents, not least Vettel dropping to last place after the first few corners following a collision with Williams’ Bruno Senna.

But through drizzle, light rain, then heavy rain, multiple pit stops, Vettel emerged the man, coming home sixth to finish three points ahead of Ferrari’s Fernando Alonso.

The 31-year-old Spaniard could do no better than second behind race winner Jenson Button, his third victory of the season as McLaren team-mate Lewis Hamilton crashed out in his final race for the marque.

Naturally, Vettel, the youngest three-time world champion, was thrilled with the win.

“It is difficult to imagine what goes through my head now, even for myself,” Vettel said. “I am full of adrenaline and if you poke me now, I wouldn’t feel it.

“It was an incredible race. When you get turned around at Turn Four for no reason and it becomes like heading the wrong way down the M25, it is not the most comfortable feeling.

“I was lucky no-one hit me but the car was damaged and we lost a lot of speed, especially when it dried up. Fortunately it started to rain again and I felt so much happier.

“A lot of people tried to play dirty tricks [during the season], but we did not get distracted by that and kept going, and all the guys gave a big push right to the end.”

For Alonso, there was only regret but he said afterwards: “We started seventh and finished on the podium one more time, as usual, which can only be achieved by perfection from the team.

“We came here hoping for a little miracle, and we had this little present of fighting for the title through to this race.

“It didn’t quite happen, but thanks to the team for a perfect season. I feel very proud of my team and of the season we have had.

“We have lost the championship now, but not here in Brazil, instead in some other races (Belgium and Japan, when he was involved in first corner accidents).”

As for race winner Button, he said: “This is the perfect way to end the whole season, and it bodes well for 2013.”