If everyone thought that Nico Rosberg would concede the Formula One title with a whimper, the German emphatically answered that in Brazil.
After watching his lead in the championship diminish week-by-week and to then see Hamilton build up his own championship lead with five consecutive victories it looked like momentum alone would see Rosberg let his chance of a maiden F1 title slip through his fingers.
But in Brazil he dominated all weekend, topping every session en route to victory.
‘That was a fantastic weekend and I felt very comfortable over the whole three days.’ Rosberg told formula1.com.
Hamilton still had the car to take what would have been his eleventh race victory of the season, but chances on track to pull off the overtake were few and far between.
His best hope was on the under-cut from the pit-stops. But when Hamilton pulled off ‘Hammer Time’ to give himself a shot of taking over the lead of the race following the pit-stop he spun, losing seven seconds and handing advantage back to Rosberg.
‘I had to learn from Austin, which was a big disappointment, and I think I achieved that. I was able to control the pace a bit better and didn’t let Lewis come too close. He drove really well and was always right there pushing me. When he spun I had a bit of time to relax and was able to save some life in the tyres for the end of the stint. That worked out perfectly and it was a great day with another one-two for the team.
Formula One now heads to Abu Dhabi where the controversial double points will decide the fate of the 2014 Formula One World Championship.
Under normal circumstances a sixth place would be enough for Hamilton to clinch the crown, but with 50 points for the winner Hamilton has to finish in second place to secure the title.
Either way it remains out of Rosberg’s hands, with him needing Hamilton to be beaten by Williams or suffer some form of technical or driver error.
‘Now we have a great finale to look forward to in Abu Dhabi. I’m still believing 100 per cent that I can make it but, of course, I will need some help from Felipe [Massa] or Valtteri [Bottas] or Lewis himself.’ Rosberg concluded.
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