Vettel feels great after record eighth consecutive win

Formula One's German dominator just keeps on winning. The four-time world champion won the US Grand Prix in easy fashion yesterday in Texas, setting an F1 season record with his eighth straight victory behind another blistering drive.

"Incredible. It's one of those (records) you never expect to be beaten," Vettel said.

Vettel started from the pole position he snagged from teammate Mark Webber of Australia in the finals seconds of Saturday's qualifying.

The No 1 spot proved important. Vettel's trademark quick start got him through the critical first turn ahead of the traffic and his lead was never threatened.

Lotus' Romain Grosjean of France was second, his best finish of the year. Webber was third.

Vettel charges into next weekend's season finale in Brazil with a chance to tie Michael Schumacher's Formula One record of 13 victories in a single season. Schumacher set the mark in 2004, and also won seven straight races that year.

Vettel also is closing on the overall Formula One record for consecutive victories of nine, set by Alberto Ascari over parts of the 1952 and '53 seasons.

"At the end of the day, what makes me jump into the car is not a certain number, but certainly today, when you realise you've done it, it makes you very proud in that moment," Vettel said.

After the victory, Vettel spun his car through several doughnuts, a move that has already drawn fines from the sports' governing body this season.

"We have to remember these days," Vettel told his crew over his car radio after the victory. "I love you guys. We have an incredible team spirit. I'm so proud of you. I love you."

Webber, frustrated at losing that pole position on Saturday, had a terrible start from second on the grid and had to settle for third, with Frenchman Grosjean getting past him at the start to land second place.