Sebastian Vettel eyes championship winning point

Sebastian Vettel has finally admitted becoming Formula One world champion this season will "not be a big problem".

Vettel heads into Sunday's Japanese Grand Prix requiring just a solitary point to retain the crown he won last year and become the youngest back-to-back and double title holder in F1 history.

The 24-year-old could miss the final five races, should he choose to do so, and still become champion, aware his only rival Jenson Button would have to win the lot to deprive him.

For a driver who has won nine grands prix, finished second in four races and fourth in another, and who has not retired for 16 events, it is hard to imagine anything thwarting his remarkable charge.

Vettel, who had insisted up until now he has given no thought to the championship, said: "I feel capable of scoring the point I need, but I still have to do it.

"Obviously with the races we've had so far it should not be a big problem, but it's over when it's over and not before."

Despite his virtually impregnable position, he still sounded a note of caution, adding: "Statistically the chances are on our side.

"But generally in sports there have been a lot of stories written, and this one also has to wait to be closed first."

On his last outing in Singapore, Vettel came close to perfection, following up his dominant pole by leading every single second of a race for the first time in his career.

Only Button denied him the hat-trick by claiming the fastest lap, but it is no wonder Vettel can declare himself "very happy at the moment" to which "there is no secret".

"The team is doing a great job, and I'm feeling very comfortable within the team and with the car," added Vettel.

"Everything seems to work and we are on top of our game. Everyone is able to rely on the other and together we are pulling in the same direction.

"I think it's very enjoyable at the moment. The car is obviously fantastic and most of the time we have a good Sunday afternoon or Sunday evening."