Abu Dhabi: Sebastian Vettel won the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix on Sunday by a massive gap of 30.8 seconds, equaling the longest run of first place finishes in the history of modern Formula One. It was the seventh consecutive race win for Vettel, equaling a record set in 2004 by his compatriot Michael Schumacher. German Nico Rosberg was third in a Mercedes.

If Vettel wins the last two races of the season he will equal the overall record of nine held by Alberto Ascari (1952/53).

Happy with his win, Vettel said, “I think today was incredible; the pace we had was scary at some stages, I felt very, very good on the soft tyres and was able to pull out a good gap in the first couple of laps. I think it’s difficult, being an active member of the team, to put things like today into perspective. When I think of the times we’ve experienced over the last few years, it’s incredible to have a strong group of people together that believes so much in what they do. To be part of that is great and makes me proud. The car was so enjoyable on every single lap. There are not that many races when you are in complete control of the car – so it’s special. I didn’t get the maximum out of myself yesterday, but we made up for it today.”

Meanwhile, Webber said, “Seb was on another planet today and was very, very strong in the first stint. He was super quick and his tyres didn’t wear out, which is a recipe for disaster for the rest of the opposition, me included. Nico had a very good start on both Sebastian and I, but fortunately it wasn’t a long run to the first corner. We got under way from there and I attacked Nico on the first lap, but then we had to look after the tyres, so we waited and then on lap eight or nine we were in trouble with the rears. I made a good move on Nico to get back into position. It would have been good to win, but we got second and I’ll go to Austin and try and do better.”