Vettel: Nice end to a tough spell

Vettel: Nice end to a tough spell

Originally written by Joas van Wingerden. This version is a translation.

Sunday 12 November 2017 19:06

Sebastian Vettel has expressed his satisfaction that he and his Ferrari team have put a difficult period behind them to claim first and third on the podium in the Brazilian Grand Prix.

Vettel took advantage of a slow start from from pole Valtteri Bottas to slide through on the opening corner and remain in front for the remainder of the race.

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Kimi Raikkonen held off a sterling challenge from the advancing Lewis Hamilton to claim third spot on the podium, and the German admitted he was relieved to collect his first victory since Hungary in July, seven races ago.

Vettel stated: "I'm eally happy for all the guys in the team back home in Maranello.

"It has been a tough couple of weeks for us so nice to get it today and have both cars up there.

"It wasn't that easy, Valtteri was pushing me all the way. Unfortunately he never got in range. I wanted to control the race with a bit more of a gap, but I think I was able to stretch a bit of a gap and keep the pace."

Vettel added that the pit-stop mid race, which saw him emerge just ahead of Bottas to retain his advantage, proved to be a pivotal moment.

"I was really happy with my approach on the way in (to the pits) and the stop was really quick. The pit exit is the most exciting on the track and luckily we came out ahead," he added.