Lauda Says Alonso Will Laugh in Red Bull's Face

Despite his countless attacks over Ferrari midway through this season, triple world champion Niki Lauda keeps considering Fernando Alonso a clear favorite for the world title. And not because the Spaniard is clearly the best driver in the field at the moment – as important as that aspect is – but because Red Bull's strategy will practically hand the Ferrari-an the title.

“It is a sporting choice, but in the end it is (Fernando) Alonso who will laugh,” said Lauda in a recent interview with ORF, pointing to the fact that Red Bull seem poised to continue their “driver equality” strategy for the Abu Dhabi season finale.

Talking to the media yesterday, Red Bull's owner Dietrich Mateschitz expressed his enthusiasm over winning the constructors' title, but insisted that he will not agree to any team orders inside his organization, even if that means handing the world title to Alonso.

Just to make things clear, a runner-up spot for Alonso in Abu Dhabi will be enough to secure him his 3rd crown in the series. In case Red Bull secure another 1-2 finish, the only way they will have a world champion at the finish line would be if Mark Webber finishes in front of his teammate Sebastian Vettel (if Alonso comes in 3rd, that is).

Needless to say, people in the F1 paddock think differently about Red Bull's strategy. While everyone seems to think they are shooting themselves in the foot, some argue the Austrians will wake up in the eleventh hour and employ team orders, if needed.

“I'd be very surprised if they didn't (use team orders),” said Spanish driver Jaime Alguersuari in an interview with Cadena SER radio, while Pedro de la Rosa opinionated: “Everyone can think what they like, it is my opinion that they will (use team orders).”

On the other hand, German racer Ralf Schumacher doubts Red Bull will change strategy in Abu Dhabi: “I doubt it. It would mean Webber becoming world champion at Red Bull before him (Vettel), and defeats within your own team never feel good,” he said, according to Germany's Bild.

Another interesting element in the title equation this weekend will be the characteristics of the circuit in Abu Dhabi. While most seem to think the track will suit Red Bull, the multitude of long straights will undoubtedly play in favor of the Ferraris and McLarens. Additionally, as revealed to the media ever since this summer, Ferrari will introduce their last major update for the F10 this weekend, meaning they will be fully prepared to counteract a potential Red Bull domination.

The race last year was won by Sebastian Vettel, who lapped the circuit 55 times and more than 17 seconds ahead of teammate Mark Webber.