Sebastian Vettel has done it. With four rounds of the 2011 season left to go, the German ace has an unassailable lead in the drivers' points table. In doing so, he has guaranteed that he will be crowned champion for a second successive year, thereby making him not only the youngest Formula One champ in the sport, but he also usurps Fernando Alonso as the sport’s youngest double champion. With an enviable win (24) and pole-position (35) record, many fans are already asking in Vettel could go on to break Schumacher’s impressive formula record of seven titles, 68 pole positions and 91 wins. I am sure that none of that is on his mind as Vettel sets about racing to win for the sheer pleasure.
Vettel has lead the 2011 drivers' race from the very first race meeting this year, as being the points leader means that you are often under attack by drivers that, seemingly, have less to lose. With his points lead, Vettel will be looking to win the final few races of the year and stamp his authority as the season draws to a close. Of course, there are still some issues that need to be sorted out. The constructors' title has yet to be decided and a few drivers will be fighting for second place behind Vettel.
Keen fans will know that free-practice sessions have already taken place at the circuit in Yeongam. The earliest was held in extremely wet conditions and the timesheet was topped by none other than the regenmeister; Michael Schumacher seemed to relish the conditions that brought him so many victories in the past. If the soggy conditions persist, perhaps we will witness his first victory since returning to the sport, a victory that will no doubt silence any detractors.
His leadership position was short-lived as the McLaren duo of Jenson Button and Lewis Hamilton traded times in the second practice session. It was Hamilton that pipped Button to the top before the session ended. Hamilton has traditionally had the upper hand on Button, but the tables have been turned of late. Button won the last race, has three wins to Lewis’ two and leads his younger sparring partner by 32 points. There is plenty to fight for at McLaren, least of all pride.
Surprisingly, the McLaren team-mates were a good 1,8 seconds ahead of Vettel. But who knows what setup the Red Bull team may or may not have been working one. Fernando Alonso will be looking to add to his win tally at the Korean GP. Ferrari has had a real rollercoaster of a season but will be looking to finish on a high note.
With five former world champions claiming the top six positions at the Japanese Grand Prix, it seems that cream really does rise to the top. If the rain persists in Korea, the race could go to anyone. Many drivers lower down the field are yet to sign contracts for 2012 so there is still plenty to play for this weekend and we can expect another exciting race as the 2011 season draws to a close.