Vettel reduces off-track load for title battle

Oct.22 (GMM) Sebastian Vettel is reportedly following Fernando Alonso's lead, as the pair knuckle down for their four-race battle to the 2012 title.

We reported a week ago that Spaniard Alonso has imposed a 'media muzzle' on himself for the decisive flyaway trek through India, Abu Dhabi, the US and Brazil, and will even slash the time he spends with Ferrari's crucial sponsors.

Sebastian Vettel, Red Bull Racing with Fernando Alonso, Ferrari

Photo by: xpb.cc

Set to arrive in Delhi on Wednesday, the German has told Red Bull "to not schedule possible distractions like promotionals", the newspaper said.

"Four races remain and he's determined to stay focused ... he wants to make it three in a row ... he seems obsessed," a source told the Telegraph.

Indeed, Vettel will not attend Red Bull's media event - a game of cricket with Indian star Gautam Gambhir - on Wednesday, even though his teammate Mark Webber will be there.

Ferrari is also leaving no stone unturned as it seeks to close the gap on Red Bull's now-dominant 2012 car.

Italy's Autosprint said the Maranello team tested a newly-updated F2012 for Alonso at the Idiada facility in Spain last Thursday, with Davide Rigon at the wheel.