Ecclestone impressed by Vettel's desire to 'remain true to himself'

Bernie Ecclestone feels Sebastian Vettel's desire to "remain true to himself" has been the key to his astonishing success this year.

Vettel heads into the Japanese Grand Prix in 10 days' time in need of a solitary point to reclaim his Formula One world title.

F1 supremo Ecclestone has often made no secret of the fact he is a fan of Vettel, who is poised to become the sport's youngest back- to-back and double world champion.

Far from being surprised by Vettel's domination this season, as the 24-year-old has secured 11 poles and nine wins so far, Ecclestone said: "There is still a lot to come from him.

"Sebastian has an absolute will to succeed, but has stayed very grounded. No win, however big, will stop him being grounded.

"That is immensely important in this business. Seb is relaxed and will always remain true to himself. That is why things come easy."

With Red Bull Racing also poised to retain their constructors' title, Ecclestone, who ran Brabham before taking control of the sport, believes he knows the key to their success.

Ecclestone added: "With Adrian Newey they obviously have a design whiz, but it also has something to do with the mentality of the whole team.

"Everybody there desperately wants to win - and win more. They are true to the motto 'show me a happy loser and I'll show you a loser'."

Ecclestone, meanwhile, has again criticised the Formula One Teams' Association (FOTA), believing they should not interfere with his running of the sport.

FOTA, that includes all teams with the exception of Hispania Racing, are determined to have a greater say and control of their own destiny.

But a dismissive Ecclestone said: "I try not to think of them.

"It is an unnecessary association of people who should put their sole emphasis on getting competitive cars on the grid.

"It's just more of what they don't have to think of. I look after that, so there are enough financial resources."