Malaysian Grand Prix 2013 - Race Schedule and Countdown

Sebastian Vettel claimed victory at Sepang in a race that would become infamous for the 'Multi-21' team orders controversy. The Red Bull teammates locked out the front row with Vettel on pole, and despite team instructions for drivers to hold position in the closing stages (Multi-21 being the code for Webber to finish first, Vettel second), Vettel ignored the orders and aggressively passed Webber to take the win. The German's defiance sparked fury from his teammate and divided opinion across the paddock about team orders and racing ethics.

The incident overshadowed what had been an impressive Red Bull display of dominance in the sweltering Malaysian heat. Lewis Hamilton rounded out the podium for Mercedes, demonstrating the Silver Arrows' growing competitiveness in the hybrid era's predecessor season. The race featured significant tire degradation in the tropical conditions, with multiple stops required and strategic decisions proving crucial to the final outcome.

Vettel's victory, while controversial, extended his championship lead and demonstrated his ruthless determination to win regardless of team politics. The Multi-21 incident would strain his relationship with Webber for the remainder of their final season as teammates and became one of the most discussed team orders controversies in F1 history. The win also served notice that despite the season's competitive opening in Australia, Red Bull remained the team to beat.