WHY HAMILTON IS ON THE CUSP
The Guardian states reasons for his dominance at this season’s Formula One
TEAM HARMONY RESTORED
From teenage friends to title rivals, by the end of last season Lewis Hamilton’s relationship with Nico Rosberg had turned into a maelstrom that affected his team. It has completely changed this year and for the better after Rosberg’s retirement following his drivers’ title success.
RUTHLESSNESS AT KEY MOMENTS
Hamilton has not enjoyed the advantage that Mercedes had displayed over the previous three seasons. Ferrari arguably have had the better car but repeatedly – at decisive moments and meetings – he has pulled out exceptional performances to take advantage. The Mercedes has an advantage in qualifying but he has been outstanding over the single lap.
TRIUMPH OVER ADVERSITY
Alongside the successes, Hamilton has come through what by any standards has been a testing season and, crucially, each time done so while minimising his losses and remaining mentally strong. Working with and around the vagaries of his car while staying in the fight signified just how complete a driver he has become.
AT HIS BEST UNDER PRESSURE
Hamilton has not cracked under pressure. Indeed it is Vettel, already a 4-time world champion, who has been found wanting – not least in Baku and his start in Singapore. Hamilton has made no major errors while chasing the lead and then defending it.
A THREERACE TURNAROUND
Having taken the lead for the first time at Monza, Hamilton’s advantage was only three points and he was going into races — . Singapore, Malaysia and Japan, where Ferrari were expected to be strong and where their upgraded engine was going to allow them to exploit it further. Hamilton, however, delivered three knockout blows.