“Hot Rod or Hot Dog” is our regular post-grand prix column where we review all of the driver performances in that race. As part of the process, one driver is declared as Badger’s “Top Dog”; it’s not necessarily the winner and, to be honest, it could be for anything.
It has to be…Vettel
Right, we don’t think this is going to be universally popular. We’re not stupid.
However, in a race so totally bereft of excitement, interest, verve, vigour or vim we’re left in a quandry. Do we want to praise the man who’s clearly got the best car and the advantage of being able to drive serenely away into the distance while those behind him squabble like cats and dogs?
In this instance, the answer is clearly yes.
He was magnificant in qualifying (again) and, when it came for him to deliver in the race, he did. There was no fuss, a minimum of disquiet and total control all the way through. Even though the race was surprisingly close for so long, we as an audience never felt that he was under pressure. He’s Vettel and, this season, he’s got (nearly) all the answers.
Quite simply, it’s hard to win one F1 race; let alone six. To be so consistent, so measured and make it look so easy is a very special talent. A very special talent.
Honourable mentions this weekend go to Fernando Alonso, the best of the rest behind the Red Bulls, and also to Jaime Alguersuari, who started eighteenth and finished eighth.
Special thanks also go to Johnnie Walker for putting on such a good event at the Charlotte Street Hotel – the venue, the food and the drink helped make the turgid Grand Prix tolerable. Thanks to all concerned.
