‘Multi 21, Seb!’ – David Tremayne looks back at Malaysia 2013, the day Vettel and Webber’s cold war turned hot


Eleven years ago the 2013 Malaysian Grand Prix should have been a celebration of a timely one-two for Red Bull. It catapulted the team from Milton Keynes to the top of both the drivers’ and constructors’ World Championships – ahead of Kimi Raikkonen and Ferrari – and brought the victorious Sebastian Vettel level with Sir Jackie Stewart’s tally of 27 Grand Prix victories.
But instead it was a public relations grenade for the team and a very hollow win for the German, whose controversial tactics exposed his ruthless desire to win at all costs – and tore apart the fragile truce that had existed between him and second-placed team mate Mark Webber since 2010.

Unlock exclusive F1 content and more with F1 Unlocked. Totally free.
Membership gets you closer with:
Curated insider content
Live like an F1 insider with exclusive access and VIP experiences
Member benefits, rewards and offers
Next Up
Related Articles
ExclusiveLowdon on Cadillac’s preparations ahead of 2026 debut
How an F1 fan is visiting all 24 races on a £20k budget
UnlockedWhen Vettel triumphed over Alonso amid Interlagos drama
Alonso hopeful for 2026 as Aston Martin 'trust tools in the factory'
Cadillac boss Towriss explains Herta’s move to F2
How Daniel Ricciardo became F1’s joyful fashion icon