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SEPANG. — Sebastian Vettel has targeted the world Formula One championship after claiming a sensational victory in the Malaysia Grand Prix to ignite the 2015 season.

In a stunning performance, Vettel silenced critics of his move to Ferrari – and the sport after the soporific Australian GP – by beating both Lewis Hamilton and Nico Rosberg at Sepang in emphatic fashion to claim his first win in Ferrari colours yesterday.

“To beat Mercedes fair and square is very special,” said Vettel in the post-race press conference.

As the four-time world champion crossed the finishing line to beat Hamilton by eight seconds, his race engineer shouted “Ferrari are back”.

The same might also be said of F1 in 2015 as Vettel ended Mercedes’ seven-month winning streak which was threatening to have fans turning off in their droves.

Not only did Malaysia serve up a riveting battle, but the overarching message from Sepang is that F1 might possess at least three title challengers.

“He has won the race, he is a championship contender,” concluded Mercedes boss Toto Wolff.

“It is going to make us work harder and concentrate even more. The recovery they have made over the winter is incredible and you have to honour that as a racer.” — AFP.