Hamilton keeps pressure on as he takes it to a showdown

Lewis Hamilton climbs out of his car following his victory in Sundays Brazilian Grand Prix

The Mercedes AMG Petronas driver raced to his 52nd career victory, surpassing the tally of Alain Prost. Only Michael Schumacher, with 91 victories, has more wins than Hamilton.

It was Hamilton’s ninth win of the season and his third in a row but his first at the Autódromo José Carlos Pace, where the wet conditions played havoc.

Hamilton closed the gap on his Brackley team-mate and championship leader Nico Rosberg to 12 points.

Nico Rosberg saw his championship lead going into final race

Team boss Toto Wolff said: “To come away with such a result in a race like that is really quite something. You simply can’t expect a one-two in such conditions.

“It’s a rare achievement, when you consider the circumstances, it’s maybe the best result of the season.

“Now, we have a showdown in Abu Dhabi. Our job is simple, to give both drivers the cars they need to fight to the flag on the track.”

Hamilton said: “I’m glad that it’s come down to the last race.

“All I can do is focus on being as strong as I have been in these past few races. If I can do that, I’ll know in my heart what I’ve achieved this year.”

Rosberg added: “Lewis did a better job and deserved the win, so I must be happy with second. Now I look forward to Abu Dhabi, where I have good memories from last year, and I will be going all out for the win there.”