Sunday: Red Bull, Vettel, and Webber end their collaboration with a one-two finish
Despite a small scare during his last pit stop, Sebastian Vettel secured an uncontested victory. Mark Webber, meanwhile, had a great race to finish behind his teammate and secure a podium finish for his last Formula 1 Grand Prix.
Sebastian Vettel – 1st:
« I don’t want to compare the record we set today; it’s not fair because it was a different time when Ascari was racing. The cars broke down more often and the teams were less consistent, so it’s a different record that we set today.
For all of us on the team, we love coming to work and giving it our all. There is a great spirit, and it’s sad in a way that the year is ending, but that’s how it is. I am sure everyone is looking forward to the holidays to recharge their batteries and prepare for next year.
My start wasn’t so good today, but I was able to pass Rosberg. It was difficult to know what was going to happen in today’s race. When we came in for the second stop, it was at the last moment and we had to wait for the tires. We managed to catch up a few laps before the end.
Today was Mark’s last race. We didn’t have the best of relationships, but nevertheless, we always had professional respect for each other, and no matter what happened off the track, it made no difference between us on the track; we attacked each other very hard. I clearly learned a lot from Mark. I learned to become a better driver thanks to his impressive skills; that’s why I consider him one of the best drivers on the grid.
Mark Webber – 2nd:
« It was nice to take off the helmet for the final lap. In this sport, it’s not always possible to give a personal touch to things. We always have our helmets on, so fans don’t always see a Formula 1 driver in the car without it. It was nice to take it off and see the marshals and fans; it was truly a wonderful thing to experience. I heard a lot of noise that I don’t usually hear. The hard part for me today was getting into the car for the last time.
I was overwhelmed with emotion, to be honest. Putting on my helmet and getting in the car was actually the most intense emotion of the day for me. Crossing the line and seeing all the guys was nice. Christian spoke to me on the radio and told me to enjoy that last lap, which I did. I did it as slowly as possible; it was a very special day. Seb and I have always had our duels over time, and it’s easier to have a relationship with Fernando because he’s in another team, but finishing on the podium with these two guys – well, they have been the best of this generation.
I raced against them on numerous occasions, and finishing with these guys was good for me because it means a lot, showing that I can drive well at the end of my career and that I chose the right timing. Formula 1 is a sport I love. I could never have dreamed of the career I had, with great highs and tough lows – you know they have to happen and you learn from adversity. The best and strongest memories come from the moments when you’re in the car; that’s what we are trained to do. Driving at the limit is what we’re paid to do and what I enjoyed doing. These are the best memories you have individually at this level.