Formula One: Hamilton on target for title

Lewis Hamilton (centre) is handed the Formula One trophy by Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Double-point rule that could cost championship isn't fazing Mercedes driver

Lewis Hamilton is refusing to allow any negativity regarding Formula One's controversial double-points rule this season mire his positive thinking in his quest for the title.

From the nadir of Belgium, where Hamilton retired after being hit by Mercedes teammate Nico Rosberg, the Briton has replied with a run of four straight victories, with the latest in Russia last weekend.

A 29-point deficit at the end of the Spa race has been turned into a 17-point advantage, with a second championship firmly in his sights.

But the remarkable fact of this campaign is Hamilton could win the next two races - so opening up a cushion that in past years would guarantee him the title - yet still miss out on the crown.

The potential saving grace for Rosberg, who has won only four races to Hamilton's nine this season, are the double points on offer for the likely title-decider in Abu Dhabi on Thursday.

It is a regulation introduced by F1 supremo Bernie Ecclestone at the end of last season that was immediately condemned by drivers and fans alike.

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Yet the purpose for which it was designed by Ecclestone, to ensure a title fight could go all the way to the wire, looks set to come to fruition.

Hamilton, though, will not consider the possibility of any "what if" scenarios such as punctures or technical failures.

"That (double points) highlights the decision that was taken for the last race, and whatever will be, will be," said Hamilton.

"For me, it's important not to put any negative energy or concern out there, and there's no need to be concerned because I've the utmost belief in this team and the car, and I'm in the best form of my life.

"Although you never know what lies ahead, you deal with it as it comes.

"There's no point thinking what if this happens or that happens, or what happens if he wins. There's no point thinking those things.

"I honestly think that's the wrong way to look at it. It's like looking at a glass that's either half empty or half full. That's just the wrong approach.

"Right now I've all the opportunities ahead of me, and I've just got to try and grab those.
"We've just got to do our due diligence and work as hard as we can to make sure we don't have any problems.

"It's about doing everything we can, maximising everything, and I plan to do that for these next three races, making sure I'm stronger than ever because I want to win."

-Independent