Vettel Admits Fault After Ignoring Team Orders in Malaysia
Sebastian Vettel apologised for passing Mark Webber against Red Bull instructions at the 2013 Malaysian Grand Prix, triggering fresh scrutiny of intra-team relations.
Sebastian Vettel apologised to Red Bull teammate Mark Webber after ignoring team orders and overtaking him to win the Malaysian Grand Prix on 24 March 2013. The incident triggered immediate controversy within the team and across the Formula One paddock, as Red Bull had instructed both drivers to maintain their positions in the closing laps.
Red Bull's 'Multi-21' Order and the Fallout
Red Bull issued the coded instruction "Multi-21" to both drivers after the final pit stops, signalling that Webber, running first, should remain ahead of Vettel. Webber reduced his pace to manage his car and tyres, expecting the order to be respected. Instead, Vettel attacked and passed Webber in a tense wheel-to-wheel battle, securing victory despite radio messages from his engineer warning him against the move.
On the podium, Webber made his feelings clear, repeating "Multi 21" to Vettel and stating that the team had made a decision that was not honoured. Webber later told reporters that he would take time to reflect before the next race in China, describing the situation as "very raw" and suggesting the events had left him reconsidering his standing within the team.
Team Management Response
Red Bull principal Christian Horner confirmed that both drivers had been told to hold position after the last round of pit stops, arguing that the team's interests were more important than individual ambitions at that stage. Even Helmut Marko, usually an outspoken supporter of Vettel, admitted the battle had "got out of control" and that the instructions were clear.
Vettel, speaking to the press after the race, accepted responsibility for the incident. He said he had not ignored the order deliberately, but admitted he took too much risk and that the win should have belonged to Webber. The apology did little to ease tensions, with Webber reportedly refusing to accept it in the immediate aftermath.
Team Orders Under the Spotlight
The incident reignited debate over the use of team orders in Formula One. On the same day, Mercedes instructed Nico Rosberg to hold position behind Lewis Hamilton, with both drivers expressing discomfort at the outcome. The contrasting reactions at Red Bull and Mercedes highlighted the challenges teams face in managing competitive teammates under high-pressure conditions.
Red Bull's handling of the situation and the public airing of grievances between its drivers pointed to deeper issues within the team, particularly in managing the relationship between Vettel and Webber. The fallout from Sepang would continue to shape Red Bull's internal dynamics and the wider discussion about the role of team orders in the sport.
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