It’s quite a simple post-race report for the 2012 Indian Grand Prix tonight, really. Sebastian Vettel made a clean start, having to cover his Red Bull teammate, Mark Webber, into the first corner before driving off into the sunset collecting his fourth race win in succession.
There was a minor issue for Vettel inside the final 10 laps when his floor rubbed along the ground for a few brief moments, but ultimately it came to nothing.
Ferrari, mindful of having to make up places for Alonso from his P5 grid position, geared their man for straight line speed. And it was a very effective ply; the dual world champ able to despatch the two McLarens early on. Although he did have to wait for a failing KERS unit on Mark Webber’s car before being able to claim second place for his own on lap 48 of 60.
Webber was able to hang on and deny a fast charging Lewis Hamilton to earn himself the final step on the podium. Hamilton, then, finished in P4 ahead of McLaren teammate, Jenson Button, and Ferrari’s Felipe Massa.
Young Aussie Daniel Ricciardo came home in P13, two places ahead of his Toro Rosso teammate, Jean-Eric Vergne. The result for Ricciardo was made easier after Vergne and Schumacher came to blows on the opening lap. It was only minor contact, but enough to give Schumi a puncture and Vergne needing to pit for a new front wing.
Schumacher was called into the garage early by his team, but was a classified as a finisher, albeit five laps off the pace. He will be investigated by stewards for ignoring blue flags as well. The general malaise of Schumacher’s late season form has gone beyond amusement or embarrassment now. It’s just sad to watch.
There’s only three races to go now and while the title is not safe for Vettel yet, you’d reckon only something extraordinary will prevent the young German etching his name into the record books as the sport’s youngest ever triple world champion. Indeed, such is Vettel’s current dominance he has led every lap, unbroken, for the last three grands prix.
Good luck Fernando, you’re going to need it!
