Person of the Year

The 2010 Formula 1 season had 19 thrilling rounds. One driver started from pole 10 times, from 2nd , 4 times, from 3rd, 3 times, from 4th,once and in Italy he started from p6.

Statistics can be manipulated to mislead an audience, but in this case, it was abundantly clear that on F1’s qualifying day, Saturday, Red Bull Racing’s Sebastian Vettel, took the wings the energy drink gave him and flew away. His dominance in qualifying was unquestioned, but the road travelled to the final round in Abu Dhabi, had more improvised explosive devices (IED) than a major roadway in Afghanistan!

Webber

A cocktail of mechanical shortcomings and self and team inflicted attacks, threatened to derail Vettel’s bullet train. When misfortune appeared, the media dived in like vultures to dinner. But like Spartacus, Vettel confronted his detractors and slaughtered McLaren’s and Ferrari’s best on the track.

When Vettel stumbled, his teammate Webber, Button, Alonso and Hamilton capitalized and netted as much points as possible. The top 5 drivers were like peas in a pod but, as the memorable season unfolded, no clear champion emerged.
Vettel won Round 16 (Japan), retired at Round 17 (Korea), won Round 18 (Brazil) and faced a massive dilemma at Abu Dhabi. Alonso led the championship followed by Webber, who was only 8 points behind. The obvious question which arose was – would Vettel move aside for Webber?

A gladiator said, “There is only 1 way to become a champion – don’t lose!” Vettel heard.

At age 23, Vettel showed resilience, resolve and maturity beyond his years. He had confidence in himself and at the final round in Abu Dhabi, his ability shone. He led from the front and destroyed a field of more experienced F1 drivers.

To finish first, you have to first finish. To win a championship, you have to lead the championship. Sebastian Vettel led the 2010 F1 championship for the first time when it mattered most, at the final round!

Sebastian Vettel, F1’s youngest champion, is my pick for Person of the Year 2010.

Cecil Munroe Gleaner On-Line Writer