Vettel unfazed by problem, cool on title talk

NEW DELHI, Oct 28, 2012 (AFP) - Sebastian Vettel dismissed concerns over an apparent technical problem with his Red Bull car during his cruise to victory in Sunday's Indian Grand Prix and stayed cool on title talk with three races to go.

The defending world champion, who has won the last four races to open up a 13-points lead ahead of Fernando Alonso of Ferrari, who finished second, said the problem with part of the car's floor touching the track did not worry him.

"I noticed the problem, I think it was when I got DRS from a backmarker pretty close to the end of the race. I didn't feel anything with the balance and on the other laps. We need to analyse the problem, but it didn't cost us or slow us down."

The problem became apparent with six laps remaining when sparks flew from the underside of Vettel's car. Talking on their team radio, the Ferrari crew urged Alonso to push hard and put pressure on the German because he seemed to be in trouble. 

But Vettel was able to manage the situation and ease to his 26th career win.

He said: "I enjoyed the race a lot. It was crucial to open a gap in the first stint, to break DRS to Mark (Webber). It was quite close at Turn 1, I was able to get a good exit out of Turn 3, then was able to open the gap, not just to Mark but also the cars behind."

He added: "To think of the championship, this was a good step for us but, we have seen how quickly things can change. This feels so fantastic and it is great to have a race come the way you want it to.

"I am proud and happy and enjoying it. That was today and we are focusing on Abu Dhabi next week. There is a lot more to come and we take things step by step."