Sebastian Vettel in Singapore last season - Photo Credit: Clive Mason/Getty Images
Sebastian Vettel insist that there is ‘still some way to go’ before he secures his second drivers championship, despite the fact he could wrap it up in Singapore next weekend.
The German expects that Red Bull should be competitive however, and is hopeful of taking his first victory in the south-east Asian night race.
“We've had some good races in Singapore in the past, especially last year when we finished second, just behind Fernando,” he said. “I love the track, it's very challenging; there are a lot of corners, it's very long, it's hot and it's a night race, so there are a lot of special things about Singapore. The car seems to be very competitive there, so I hope we can go back there this year and win – it would be very special.
“Looking to the Championship, there is still some way to go. We are in a very strong position, which we deserve because we've been working hard and made few mistakes. As long as we come out of the next race with a bigger lead then we start with, then we have done a good job, so let's see.”
Mark Webber implies that he is now fighting for second place in this season’s drivers championship, and explains why this unique night race poses a particular challenge to the drivers.
“The Singapore night race is a challenging one,” he comments. “The track's bumpy and although the 1500-odd lights do a good job at illuminating the circuit, it's not like racing in daylight and that makes it tiring. It's also the longest race of the year, running close to the two-hour time-limit set by the FIA, and the intense heat and humidity makes it pretty warm in the cockpit. You have to watch your hydration during the build-up to the race.
“I finished third at the Marina Bay circuit last year, but the track hasn't been that kind to me in the past. I enjoy driving there, so I hope to nail it this year in much the same way that I nailed Valencia earlier this season. In the Championship, four of us – me, Fernando, Jenson and Lewis – are separated by just 14 points and none of us is going to give an inch.”
