Crowded house

Italian fans invade the track to celebrate a great race and a Vettel victory

F1 Big Picture: The Italian fans invaded the track for the podium ceremony yesterday, lining the area beneath the top three drivers, and far back along the home straight.

The Italian fans invaded the track for the podium ceremony yesterday, lining the area beneath the top three drivers, and far back along the home straight. Sebastian Vettel found it an emotional victory, seeing the vastness of the cheering crowd - even if there were some boos heard as the Tifosi supported their Ferrari driver.

The German won his first ever Formula One victory at Monza in 2008, taking a strong victory in a damp race. Driving for Toro Rosso back then, it was a surprise win. Three years on, and Vettel still found the result a surprise, despite how his 2011 season has panned out so far. Speaking after the race, he said: "This circuit means a lot to me and has been very special.

Obviously, my first win here, so when I crossed the line I remembered every single bit. The podium is unbelievable. When you stand up there, you feel so blessed. So many people underneath, filled with people, it's unbelievable. A circuit that has been tough for us to be competitive the last two years. Really the car was amazing, qualifying yesterday and even better in the race today."

Related Stories