Vettel hits back at top car critics

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World champion Sebastian Vettel hit back at his critics on Thursday saying he felt it was unfair for people to claim he had gained his success because of the dominant speed of his Red Bull car.

Speaking to reporters on the eve of this weekend's title showdown Brazilian Grand Prix at Interlagos, where he is seeking to become Formula One's youngest triple champion, he said he had proved his talent throughout his career.

Asked if he felt his reputation would be higher if he did not have such an often-dominant car, he said he had done his time in 'smaller' teams and added that no champions achieved their results in midfield machinery.

"I think if you look back I don't know how far, as far as I can look back, there were never people really, really successful in a really bad car," said the German.

"It is a natural thing to happen: one day you have a strong driver in a strong team so you end up with a strong combination and that is difficult to beat.

"It's natural to be in a weaker car. We have all been in that situation. Michael (Schumacher) started in a Jordan, which was not competitive, but had some highlights, Fernando started in a Minardi and set some highlights.

"I started at BMW replacing Robert Kubica for one race, which was a great chance, and then afterwards got the seat in Toro Rosso, which at the time was not a competitive car, but we did a good job and even won a race.

"We had a great season, the step up to Red Bull Racing was great fun and a fantastic season - the first time to be competitive, finish on the podium and win races. It was a fairly normal way I went."

Looking ahead to Sunday's race, he said anything could unfold, notably if it rained.

"It is sport and anything can happen," he said. "We need to look after ourselves. The weekend starts tomorrow morning and not on Sunday.

"We have to go step by step, to make sure we get the maximum result. Historically we have been very quick here. We know it is a place where lots of things can happen. We need to be sharp in the moment to see what we can get."