Rivalry revs up Hamilton

LEWIS Hamilton says he is “loving” his world championship battle with Sebastian Vettel so much that he has banished any thoughts of retirement as he heads into Sunday’s last Malaysian Grand Prix.

After a disappointing 2016, Hamilton had thought of retiring.

“But then we’re in the heat of this battle right now and I’m loving it more than ever,” the rejuvenated Mercedes driver said.

Hamilton has a 28-point lead over Vettel in the championship.