Korean Grand Prix 2010 - Race Schedule and Countdown

Fernando Alonso claimed a crucial victory at the inaugural Korean Grand Prix, capitalizing on Sebastian Vettel's engine failure while leading to extend his championship advantage heading into the final two races. The Spaniard's opportunistic win at the brand-new Korean International Circuit came in chaotic conditions that saw both Red Bull drivers retire, transforming the championship battle and putting Alonso firmly in control of the title fight.

The race at Korea's new circuit was defined by drama from the start. Vettel took pole position and led the early stages, but on lap 46 his Red Bull suffered a catastrophic engine failure while comfortably ahead, ending his race in a cloud of smoke and flames. The retirement was devastating for the young German's championship hopes and handed victory to Alonso, who had been running second. Mark Webber's championship challenge also faltered when his Red Bull retired with mechanical issues, meaning both Red Bulls failed to finish for the first time in 2010. Alonso seized the opportunity brilliantly, controlling the race after inheriting the lead and setting the fastest lap.

Lewis Hamilton drove a strong recovery race to finish second for McLaren, keeping his mathematical championship hopes alive though he remained a long shot. Felipe Massa completed the podium in third place, securing a crucial one-two for Ferrari that extended their constructor's championship lead. The Korean circuit, making its F1 debut, provided a challenging test with its combination of high-speed corners and technical sections, though the newly-laid surface and incomplete facilities drew criticism. Alonso's victory, combined with both Red Bulls' retirements, meant he headed to Brazil with an 11-point lead over Webber and 25 over Vettel - needing just a strong finish to claim his third world title.