Bernie Ecclestone believes that F1 is entering a new era in which Sebastian Vettel and Red Bull will dominate the sport with more authority than when Michael Schumacher ruled with Ferrari.

While many F1 fans might shudder at the thought of the young German dominating the sport to such an extent, Ecclestone believes the Vettel era will be more exciting due to the opposition he faces in the likes of Alonso, Hamilton, Button, Webber and Rosberg. On the other hand, other than Mika Hakkinen, many feel that Schumacher's dominance with Ferrari was due to the lack of serious opposition and the machinery at his disposal.

"Sebastian is in a similar position as Michael," said Ecclestone in an interview with the official F1 website. "Sebastian is the best right now and that's why he is dominating.

"That's what makes it so interesting for the fans because every race weekend starts with a big question mark, who will be able to beat Vettel? That's why fans tune in.

"The competition Sebastian is facing is much bigger than that confronted by Michael," Ecclestone continued. "That makes Seb's wins even more noteworthy. I don't see a reason why there shouldn't be a Red Bull era just as Ferrari had theirs with Michael."

All of which means we're going to be seeing a lot more of... the finger.