Vettel congratulates Hamilton on title win, regrets not having raced him more

Sebastian Vettel was gracious after seeing his hopes of a fifth Formula 1 world championship in 2017 end today after finishing fourth in the Mexican Grand Prix.

Vettel scored a crucial pole position yesterday, setting a qualifying lap record, and took the fastest lap of today's race but neither was enough to turn the tide on Lewis Hamilton's title lead and keep the championship alive.

A dramatic start saw both rivals consigned to the pits with damage after contract and then the back of the pack, and while Vettel was able to finish fourth with Hamilton ninth, the Mercedes driver was able to wrap up his fourth world title.

"It's disappointing obviously, but it's not that important, what we have done today," Vettel said after the race.

"What's more important is what Lewis has done. He's done a superb job all year around and deserves to win the title, so congratulations to him and it's not about anybody else today. 

"It's about him. It's his day."

Hamilton's fourth title draws him level with Vettel's tally, and when asked if Hamilton was now on a par with him, the Ferrari driver said: "If you can count, then yes.

"I don't fear him. I like racing with him, but obviously I would have liked a little bit more of that this year. Overall they were just the better bunch."