It will be very special to be in the elite list: Vettel

It's incredible what we have achieved, says German

What does one do when a competitor is so far ahead that standing on the second step on the podium seems like a victory in itself?

Sebastian Vettel has had teams, drivers, engineers and pretty much everyone else wondering just that.

His ‘Schumacheresque’ performances have triggered booing and calling for the end of his dominance from sections of spectators world over. 

However, finishing second is not something Vettel is used to and by the looks of it he is not going to begin that trend here as well.

The three-time World Champion has used his intelligence, skill and the availability of an exceptional car into opening up a 90-point lead between himself and Fernando Alonso, paving way for his fourth title with four races to go.

Vettel, addressing the media at the Buddh International Circuit on Thursday, spoke as modestly as possible despite being one win away from joining the likes of Juan Manuel Fangio and Michael Schumacher as the only driver to win four championships in a row.Excerpts from the media interaction:

Would you rate this (fourth) title above the rest?

No. I think it will be as good as the other three. The chances of winning it here (BIC) are pretty good and the focus is to get the maximum, both for the race and the championship. It will be a great relief (to seal the title here) because it’s for what we have been working hard. Obviously, we are in good position with a big gap in the points table. 

But I didn’t come here thinking that I have to do this and that... I didn’t do that the last three years. 

Sometimes, it’s good to carry on and other times it’s good to know figures and stats which were speaking against us. I am looking forward to the weekend. The target is to win the race. The most important thing is winning the championship. Doesn’t matter where and when.

Does it feel special to join the likes of Schumacher and Fangio?

It’s something special but I don’t think it makes sense talking about before sealing the title. Otherwise, it will take away the excitement. 

I go into this weekend not expecting anything. When you talk about world champions, generally it’s a small list. For sure, it will be very very special to be in the elite list. But I don’t really look back because I am not living in the past. It’s incredible what we have achieved in the last three years.

So does Vettel have any weakness?

I am stubborn and takes a little while to realise certain things. There are other things as well, but I will leave that to you, the experts.

Your team-mate Webber has said that he wants to make it as hard a possible for you. Your take on that...

I don’t think a thing has changed then (laughs). I think he tried that all through the years we have been racing together. 

About the car, we always fought for little things and reliability. There was something going on behind the scenes in the past.

What if the Indian GP was to never happen again?

We like the track and coming here. In that regard, it’s shame if we lose India. In terms of paperwork, it’s a big relief. I am sure we will be back here in 2015 though. 

The track is very modern and facilities are good. I am expecting a good turnout on Sunday.