World champion Vettel's a top guy . . . just ask the petrol-heads at Top Gear

There are so many reasons to be jealous of the young German. His c.v. boasts that he was the youngest ever race leader, pole sitter, points scorer, winner and world champion.

And, to top it all off, he's now dominating the sport with six wins from nine in 2011.

All those things should add up, therefore, to us fearing another 'Schumacher-esque' period of one-man championships. And, of course, there's our tendency in England to be negative about those enjoying success so young.

However, as a nation, we have really taken to Seb. Perhaps it's that despite having a Bond-like ruthlessness behind the wheel, outside of the car he's just like one of us.

And in the mega-rich, private jet-powered world of Formula One celebrity, 'one of us', is the greatest compliment you can pay him.

I went with Sebastian to the Top Gear test track two weeks ago when he became the fastest F1 driver on a timed lap and his reception was amazing.

The petrol-heads in the audience raised the roof. He admitted that just like us he watches the show, loves driving fast and that his single-finger salute shouldn't be mistaken for arrogance or over-confidence . . . the perfect champion. His humour translates well, he's personable, aware how blessed he is and he just so happens to be incredibly fast.

When one man keeps winning most F1 races, it usually leads to a drop in viewing figures, but not in 2011.

The TV audiences have been breaking records and it seems to be a combination of exciting and dramatic racing, followed by a popular winner - even if he isn't British and driving for McLaren.

So, where does this leave us as we reach the halfway point of the season? Well it seems the title is all but wrapped up. People could say that in two of the last three races we've had a non-Red Bull winner.

True, however, each time Vettel has finished second. If that happened at every race for the rest of the season, he'd successfully defend his title.

For anyone else to win the championship would require an incredible meltdown of car and driver at Red Bull, combined with a stunning run-in to the end of the year for one of their close challengers.

It's widely expected that McLaren will challenge Red Bull for the win here on Sunday, with Ferrari, on the back of their British Grand Prix win, pushing for a place on the podium.

This weekend I wouldn't rule out a Ferrari or McLaren win and remember that Red Bull's Mark Webber picked up his first ever win in Germany in 2009 - so keep the Australian in mind.

However, with the chance to add a home win to the blue riband trophies from Monaco, Monza and Silverstone . . . I know where I'd put my money.

On the nice guy, who also happens to be, the fast guy.