SEPANG, Malaysia, (Reuters) – Sebastian Vettel giggled and admitted he had sipped too much champagne when he addressed the media after storming to victory at the Malaysian Grand Prix yesterday.
The German led a Red Bull one-two ahead of team mate Mark Webber and his eagerness to celebrate could be forgiven as the team finally converted on a strong qualifying session after mechanical failures deprived him of two victories this season.
It was a case of third time lucky in Malaysia after Vettel sped past Nico Rosberg and pole-sitter Webber to charge into the lead by turn one, before cruising to the chequered flag without a hint of the unreliability that has dogged the team this season.
“I feel a bit tipsy because of the champagne… I think I sipped too much,” Vettel said before the start of his news conference.
“What a day!” he told reporters. “We had a magnificent car and the key once again was to pace yourself. At the end of the day, a very good result for us and for myself after two races where I didn’t finish where I wanted to be.
“It was crucial for the team not to panic and to stay relaxed. It is a long season but this is the best result we could get and on top of that Mark getting second place is a big plus for the team and a lot of points.”
Once in front, Vettel’s only concern was the prospect of Webber utilising a faster stop to gain track position but the threat never materialised when the Australian was delayed by a stubborn front right wheel in the pits.