Mar.18 (GMM) 2012 championship leader Jenson Button on Sunday proved Red Bull's era of dominance may be over.

Jenson Button, McLaren Mercedes
Jenson Button, McLaren Mercedes

Photo by: xpb.cc

After two titles on the trot, Red Bull and Sebastian Vettel finished second in Melbourne as McLaren's 2009 champion Button sped to an early 7-point lead over German Vettel.

It is the first time in 23 races - more than an entire season - that Red Bull have not led a single lap during a grand prix.

"He (Button) was just too quick," said Vettel. "He deserved to win today."

F1 jumps directly from Australia to Malaysia, but Button is planning a party first. "I'm very excited to go to Malaysia," the Briton smiled, "but I'm not thinking about that now."