Red Bull team owner Dietrich Mateschitz names Sebastian Vettel unique, but never believed that the German would dominate the 2011 Formula One season in such a way that he can wrap up back—to—back world titles on Sunday.
“We knew that Sebastian is capable of top performances. But it came as a surprise to many that he achieved it with such a long run of consistency,” Mateschitz told the German Press Agency dpa.
“I consider him unique.” Vettel told dpa ahead of the Singapore Grand Prix he was very honoured by the statements of the 67—year—old Austrian billionaire.
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“Of course you are proud if you hear something like this,” Vettel said. “Didi and I have a very special relationship.” Vettel became the youngest Formula One world champion at age 23 last year when he stole the title in the last race from Spanish Ferrari driver Fernando Alonso.
He carried the momentum into the 2011 campaign in which he has a runaway lead with eight wins, four second—place finishes and a fourth place from 13 of 19 races.
Vettel enters Sunday’s floodlight GP 112 points ahead of Alonso and if everything goes his way will be assured of the title ahead of the final five races.
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Red Bull made its F1 debut in 2005 after Mateschitz’ Austrian energy drinks company bought up the Jaguar team. Vettel joined in 2009 from sister team Toro Rosso after having graduated from Red Bull’ young driver programme in his teens.
The Vettel/Red Bull partnership brought almost instant success.
Vettel secured the first pole for the team at the 2009 Chinese GP and the first race win the next day in a one—two ahead of Mark Webber.
By now, Red Bull have won 23 grands prix (18 from Vettel, five from Webber) and earned their first constructors’ title in 2010.
While Vettel and the veteran Australian had an at times bitter fight for the title in 2010, the German is the undisputed number one this time around.
His success, coupled with his boyish charm, are a huge blessing for the team, according to Mateschitz.
“Both of it is very important for our F1 team,” said Mateschitz.
“The success confirms to the team that it is capable of building a winning car. And you can’t really top it if this success is achieved with so much sympathy, youthfulness and joy.
“Sebastian is grateful that we have been with him for more than 10 years, that we led him into Formula One and can provide him with a winning car. We are grateful that he not only honours our effort with his talent, but also with his unbelievable willpower, professionalism and discipline.” Mateschitz normally keeps a low profile and probably won’t even be present in Singapore, but he firmly believes that a second drivers’ (and likely constructors’) title will not be the end of Red Bull’s dominance.
“Of course the expectations are high, and they won’t be lowered by us,” Mateschitz told dpa.