Hamilton finishes second and Rosberg third. Still a healthy return for Mercedes in terms of points, but Ferrari have rattled them today. The Italian side look to have the pace to challenge them seriously like nobody else has been able to do. It’s not just Vettel’s drive, but the way Raikkonen has recovered today from 11th on the grid, a puncture and an extra pit stop to finish fourth shows how good their car is.
Massa and Bottas the two Williams drivers had a fight to the finish for 5th place, and Bottas made the pass on the final lap. What will worry Williams is that Ferrari have left them for dead today when there didn’t look to be much between the teams
Vettel says: ‘It’s been a while since I have been on the top step, it was my first time with Ferrari and I’m speechless. I am very happy,. This is a great achievement and we have a great car. Today is a very special day and will always remain a part of me. I want to celebrate today and get p***** tonight.’
Hamilton humble in defeat on the podium.
He said: ‘Huge congratulations to Ferrari and Sebastian they did an amazing job. We knew coming into this weekend they had made a step but we didn’t know how big but they were too fast today. My balance wasn’t great and I’m sure we can find places to improve and fight for the next race in China.’
Rosberg also delivered a message: ‘All I can say on behalf of my team is “Game on Ferrari”. Ferrari did an awesome job today and deserved to win but we will be back at the next race.