German can seal his second world title this weekend in Singapore
Last Updated: September 21, 2011 1:00pm
Dietrich Mateschitz: nothing but praise for his star driver
Red Bull team owner Dietrich Mateschitz admits Sebastian Vettel's domination this season has taken even him by surprise.
Vettel has had an incredible 2011 campaign, winning eight races and finishing just one of 13 grands prix outside the top two.
The German has a 112-point lead over second-placed Fernando Alonso in the drivers' championship and could wrap up his second title at the Singapore GP this weekend if results go his way.
The past two seasons could not have been more contrasting for Vettel though. In 2010 he had to wait until the final race of the season in Abu Dhabi to win his maiden championship, while this year he is cruising to the title.
Mateschitz believes Vettel is "unique", but admits he never believed that the German would dominate the 2011 season in such a way a manner.
"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 graciously accepted the compliments by the Austrian billionaire.
"Of course you are proud if you hear something like this," Vettel told dpa. "Didi and I have a very special relationship."
Charm
Mateschitz also believes that Vettel's boyish charm has been "very important" for the team.
"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," the 67-year-old said.
"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."
Credit: Sky Sports (www.skysports.com)
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