Hamilton: Title race is a game of chess

Editor

The title race may be a game of chess that it is “check” but Lewis Hamilton concedes it is not yet a done deal.

Hamilton goes into Sunday’s United States Grand Prix with a 59-point lead over Sebastian Vettel in the race for this year’s World title.

The Mercedes driver could therefore take the title if he finishes first with Vettel sixth or lower.

However, starting from pole position with the Ferrari driver alongside him on the grid, Hamilton concedes there is still some life left in the championship race.

“It’s a bit like a game of chess,” he said.

“Obviously right now it’s check but there’s still a long, long way to go.

“There’s still a hundred points available.

“Sebastian and his team are going to be working as hard as they can, as are we. Who knows? It’s going to go to the wire I still think.

“In the next four races, I think they [Ferrari] are going to give it a great shot and I’m going to do my utmost to try and defend – and not only defend but really maximise and win these races.

“I want to win these races, that’s what I’m working towards and naturally, in winning races, points come and championships are won so that’s what I’m here to do.”