Hamilton plays down title talk

[Wizzo]

Lewis Hamilton refused to contemplate the prospect of becoming the first rookie Formula One world champion despite a stunning victory in a thrilling Japanese Grand Prix.

The downcast look on the Alonso's face said it all as he stood at the side of the track surveying the wreckage of both his car and his dreams of a third consecutive drivers’ title.

But Hamilton insisted suggestions he was now home and dry after his team-mate’s woe in the wet were far too premature.

“I think at the back of your mind, in the subconscious, you do think about it a little bit, but I think the key for me is just to focus on the next race and just make sure my preparations are right and take it as it comes,” he said.

“I think after the next race then you really have to start thinking about it but I don’t think it’s something you should be doing because you can worry.

“I hope I finish the next race and do the best job I can. I hope we have the pace again to have the opportunity to win.”

[Steven Roy]

The good thing from his point of view is that even if Alonso wins the last two races Lewis can follow him and both Ferraris and will still win the championship.