Vettel says he was in control near the end of the Singapore GP

The world champion dominated the race from start to finish, but saw McLaren rival Button finish just 1.7 seconds behind after closing in quickly during the final stages of the race.

Vettel, who scored his ninth win of the season, said it was not easy with the backmarkers, but claimed he had the situation under control.

"First of all, I am very, very pleased with the result," said Vettel. "The car was fantastic all the way through. When we could push we could pull away easily.

"Towards the end I faced five cars with lots of groups, so it was not that big a margin but I was in control. A fantastic result. I really love the track, I love the challenge, I think it is the longest race.

"The car was fantastic. Engine wise everything was fantastic, we were in a comfortable position for most of the race, which is handy around here.

"For the championship it looks like we have another chance at the next race."

His victory in Singapore means Vettel needs to score a single point in the remaining five races to secure his second title.

Button is the only other driver with a mathematical possibility to clinch the title, but the Briton would need to win all races with Vettel not scoring at all.

The German insisted he still needs to score that point.

"I feel capable but I still have to do it," he said. "With the races we had so far, it should not be a problem. But it is over when it is over, and this one has to wait to be closed first."

He added: "The team is doing a great job. I am feeling very comfortable with the team, with the car, and we are on top of our game.

"There is no secret, but it is just everyone is able to rely on the other one and together we are pulling in the same direction, one direction. I think it is very enjoyable at the moment. The car is fantastic and most of the time I have good Sunday afternoons or Sunday evenings."