But domination did not mean dull. New Pirelli tyres, the return of KERS and the introduction of DRS made for overtaking-filled races with intense rivalries up and down the grid. We look back on a most memorable F1 season

All that changed on Sunday in Brazil, however, when Vettel – hamstrung by a failing gearbox – was forced to settle for second, thereby helping Webber to his first win of the year

Ahead of the on-track action, local hero Felipe Massa took time out to visit the Hospital das Clinicas di San Paolo, a cutting-edge children’s facility which specialises in treating rare diseases and tumours. As well as meeting up with the hospital’s doctors and nurses, Massa chatted to several patients during his visit.

Now fast forward to 2011. Barack Obama is the first black President of the United States. The last of eight Harry Potter films is the top-grossing film. Google processes over a billion internet search requests a day. And in F1, Red Bull are dominating with their innovative RB7 whilst Brazilian stalwart Rubens Barrichello struggles to get the best from his Williams.

The double champion said at Interlagos on Thursday that he is pleased his tyre failure in Abu Dhabi was not the result of driver error, but that the precise cause of it is still unknown.

“Brazil is one of the best races of the year,” the Australian says. “It’s a track which reminds me of Brands Hatch and the Formula Ford racing there because it’s a like a bowl in terms of the atmosphere. The Brazilian people love their motorsport and are extremely passionate about it, obviously off the back of Piquet, Senna, Fittipaldi and Rubens Barrichello – they’ve had some really great drivers.

As we approach the season finale in Brazil this weekend, Mercedes have compiled some facts and figures to help you make an assessment

Numerous teams and drivers remain locked in lesser, but just as meaningful battles as they look to better their positions in the final standings. We take a look at five of the most fascinating…

The rules stipulate teams are allowed to field any driver who has not competed in more than two Grands Prix, but for many this week it will be their first taste of F1 power. Here’s a rundown of the drivers expected in action

Sebastian Vettel may have gone out early, but Hamilton had been quickest all weekend – he even set the fastest qualifying lap, albeit in Q2 – and always looked a good bet for victory