New title leader Button ends Red Bull era

2012 championship leader Jenson Button on Sunday proved Red Bull’s era of dominance may be over.

After two titles on the trot, Red Bull and Sebastian Vettel finished second in Melbourne as McLaren’s 2009 champion Button sped to an early 7-point lead over German Vettel.

It is the first time in 23 races - more than an entire season - that Red Bull have not led a single lap during a grand prix.

"He (Button) was just too quick," said Vettel. "He deserved to win today."

F1 jumps directly from Australia to Malaysia, but Button is planning a party first.

"I’m very excited to go to Malaysia," the Briton smiled, "but I’m not thinking about that now."