Sebastian Vettel seals historic treble at dramatic Brazilian GP

The 43-year-old German had joined Mercedes in 2010, having first retired in 2006 with Ferrari.

His second stint has not been quite successful as he failed to win a single race in three seasons in deep contrast to his record 91-race victories in first stint, which began in 1991.

Behind Schumacher was Jean-Eric Vergne, Kamui Kobayashi and Kimi Raikkonen, who finished third in drivers standing with 207 points.

It was great a chance for Hulkenberg to end his association with Sahara Force India with a podium finish but his over ambitious overtaking move in lap 49 not only ended Hamilton's race but also got him a drive-through penalty, which cost him four places.

The young German had snatched lead from Hamilton in as early as lap 19 in the 71-lap race.

Vettel could not have more disastrous start as he was hit from back by Bruno Senna which damaged his car and left him at the back of the pack.

Pole sitter Hamilton held his position from McLaren teammate Button, who was locked in a good battle with Massa.

Alonso made his way up to third as the Spaniard made a move on Mark Webber in the second Red Bull and his own teammate Felipe Massa on turn one.

However, the slippery conditions were tough to negotiate and Alonso was soon off the track, to fall back to seventh. Hulkenberg took advantage and past Alonso and Webber to go up to third place.

Fortunately for Vettel his car was not damaged to the extent which could end his race and he made an astonishing fightback to zoom up to sixth position.

Both Vettel and Alonso shifted to intermediate tyres via first pit stop, considering the wet conditions.

Hulkenberg meanwhile moved to second between race leader Hamilton and Button and in lap 19 the German used his KERS to snatch the race lead.

... contd.

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