Luck plays key role in Formula One success

Luck. Some people dismiss it as mere superstition; others pay much closer attention. In the hi-tech world of Formula One you could be forgiven for thinking luck played no part, but of course it does. To win a world title you need many things, but no matter how big your budget or how clever your team is you definitely need a slice of luck.

Heading into the grand prix in Abu Dhabi, Fernando Alonso was decidedly upbeat. Despite seeing a 42-point lead evaporate at the hands of Sebastian Vettel and Red Bull, he was adamant that he could still win the title. His argument was that he had had rotten luck recently and that had to even out.

When Vettel was ordered to start the race from the pit lane, Alonso might have thought the dice was finally starting to roll for him. A damaged front wing for the German in just the third lap might have bolstered the feeling. However, two safety-car appearances were indeed a stroke of luck for Red Bull. The first, early on, enabled them to replace the damaged wing and not lose too much time. The second, towards the end, enabled a fourth-placed Vettel to close up on the race leaders.

A hugely impressive third place meant he conceded just three championship points to Alonso. As they explore the new Austin, Texas, track this weekend, 10 points separate them with a maximum of 50 on offer. It's still up for grabs and neither driver seems to think that luck will have the final say.

Vettel says he and Alonso are equally worthy of the title this year. He said: "If you look at the races we've done so far, I think Fernando's and my DNF's [did not finish] or calamities are equal. I still believe the driver who deserves it will win."

Alonso is equally sanguine, saying after Abu Dhabi: "They have the fastest car, we have the best team. We will see who wins."