Formula 1: Vettel lights up Singapore!

F1 fans are not looking forward to the darkness at the end of the tunnel as the F1 season runs its course, so they will enjoy the remaining races thoroughly. It was Singapore’s time to shine and under the lights a gripping thriller was illuminated.

Hamilton on pole did what was required of him and kept the lead but gut-wrenching reliability issues – gearbox failure on lap 22 – shredded his race-plan. The door was then left wide open for Vettel to enter and he did not need a second invitation.

Alonso

Championship leader Alonso kept his name in the lights as he fought for a podium spot. Alonso locked horns with a bold Maldonado a one stage, but hydraulic monsters crippled Maldonado and forced a reluctant retirement.

Street circuits and safety cars are bosom buddies and at Marina Bay the relationship was evident. There were 2 safety car interventions which narrowed the gaps and ‘bunched up’ the field.

Massa

With 17 laps to go, Massa delivered the drive of the race with deft flicks of the steering to stabilize a prancing Ferrari as he tried to overtake Bruno Senna. Senna eventually retired, but, at the front, Vettel had his way, gapping Button without protest, by as much as 6 seconds while Alonso protected third.

I n what eventually became a timed race, engineers kept their eyes peeled to the monitors with special emphasis on the tires.

Vettel

At the Festival of Lights, Vettel shone as he took his second win of the 2012 season. With the repeat victory in Singapore, Vettel has injected new life in his bid to grab another title.

Alonso claimed third and maintains a 29 point over Vettel who jumped from 4th to second in the points standings. Alonso must be concerned.

At the Marina street circuit, Vettel said he could win from third (on the grid) and he did. Can he win the World Championship?

Cecil Munroe Gleaner On-Line Writer