Having taken both the chequered flag and the 2010 Formula One title at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix earlier this month, Red Bull Racing’s Sebastian Vettel is now officially the fastest man on the face of the planet. With four months until the new season starts in Bahrain, what does the 23 year old German have planned for the winter break? We headed along to the Puma store in Abu Dhabi Mall for a chat with the new king of speed.
Having won both the first and second Abu Dhabi Grand Prix and claimed the world title here, you must feel a strong connection to the city. Have you had the chance to get out there and explore yet?
Not really. Last year was obviously the first race here, and this year was very busy also. The focus was on the championship, obviously. I didn’t get to see much apart from the track. But I think what they’ve built out there on Yas Island is pretty incredible, when you compare it to other race tracks it’s much more modern, so it’s basically the perfect place. Originally I planned to have a little bit of time to check the place out in the week after the race but… having won the championship I’ve been quite busy travelling back and forth.
Have you received any messages of congratulations from famous fans? Has anyone been in touch who you weren’t expecting to hear from?
Yeah loads of people. A lot of people from my home country, from everywhere. It’s nice to hear from people from other sports – football for example – and to know that people appreciate it. I think it shows you as well how big Formula One is and what we have achieved. I’m very, very proud.
What’s the plan for you between now and March? Testing aside, do you get much down time?
Obviously the new season starts in March and testing starts in the beginning of February, and you have meetings with the team in January, driving in the simulator and so on. There’s lots of things to do before Christmas, public appearances and that sort of thing. There won’t be too much time, but I’ll try to maybe take some holiday for a bit of rest, then start training again so I’m ready for next year.
