Yeongam set for speed show

World’s top drivers in action for 2nd Korean Grand Prix


YEONGAM, South Jeolla Provinc -- Despite some worries over its preparation, the Korea Grand Prix kicks off on Friday for a three-day run in Yeongam, South Jeolla Province.

All the teams and drivers with their multi-billion dollar racing cars are back in the small port city, hoping to become a champion in the country’s 2nd edition event.

But with four races to go before the end of 2011 season, the championships title has already been decided.

Sebastian Vettel of Red Bull racing team clinched the title after finishing third in the Japan Grand Prix last week, becoming F1’s youngest two-time champion. And he is enjoying a very successful season -- the young German driver has won nine out 15 races so far. Only Michael Schumacher in 2002 and Nigel Mansell in 1992 clinched the championship with more than four races remaining.

Although his motivation might wane, the 24-year-old reigning champion promised on Thursday to do his best to win his first title here.

“I love racing and will enjoying racing as usual, the approach will remain the same as usual,” Vettel said.

Last year, at the inaugural Korean Grand Prix, Vettel was leading the race until 10 laps to go before an engine failure brought his afternoon to a disappointing end.

“I have never been on the podium here, so there is still something to be done. And I’m looking forward to winning the race on Sunday,” he said during a press conference in Yeongam.

Thursday’s press conference at the Korean International Circuit saw Vettel, and defending champions Fernando Alonso of Ferrari and Lewis Hamilton of McLaren sitting side by side, facing the glare of the media spotlight. And joining them in the back row were three other title contenders, including Sergio Perez of Sauber, Pastor Maldonado of Williams and Jaime Alguersuari of Toro Rosso.

“We are all here to win. We’re racing for our teams, for our sponsors, for our fans. So it’s impossible not to be motivated,” Alonso, who won the last year’s Korean Grand Prix, said.

Hamilton, who finished second last year, is also looking for the title this weekend, but acknowledged that this year would be a very tight race.

“The track is very nice to drive. Last year, we had some difficulties due to weather conditions. But this year it’s going be a very close race,” he said.

Vettel’s personal record also keeps him motivated. With four more races to go before the end of the 2011 calendar, he is still in contention to tie the all-time season record of 13 wins set by Schumacher in 2004. 

By Oh Kyu-wook (596story@heraldcorp.com)