Vettel sees several challengers in 2012
As Sebastian Vettel is world champion for the second consecutive year, the German driver is already looking ahead to the next season, and to which of his competitors might give him a run for his money in 2012...
Despite his young age (24 years and 4 months) and his two world championship titles (2010-2011), Sebastian Vettel seems to keep a level head and a certain modesty.
Indeed, when asked who among the other drivers on the grid could be his main challenger in 2012, the German driver was unable to single out just one of his competitors: « It is absolutely impossible for me to highlight just one driver because we live in an era in F1 where you don’t have just one challenger, but several, each with their own strengths and weaknesses ».
And the native of Heppenheim added: McLaren has been very strong this season, both with Jenson [Button] and with Lewis [Hamilton].
Regarding Lewis Hamilton, the 2011 champion acknowledges that the year has been difficult for the British driver crowned in 2008: « It is clear that the season hasn’t been the simplest for Lewis, but that doesn’t mean it will be the same next year ».
Finally, Vettel sees Ferrari and Mercedes “back in the race”: « It’s clear that Fernando [Alonso] with Ferrari will be there, just like Mercedes which has two exceptional drivers. And let’s not forget Mark Webber. No really, I can’t mention just one name, but several. That’s my opinion ».
While waiting for 2012, there is still one Grand Prix this season, in Brazil. It will be an opportunity for one of the drivers mentioned by Vettel to stand out and suggest a serious challenge for Red Bull and its No. 1…
