Lewis Hamilton insists talk of wrapping up a fourth Formula 1 title at this weekend’s United States Grand Prix is ‘silly’, insisting Ferrari will return to form.
Hamilton, who leads by 59 points after a woeful string of races for title rival Vettel, can seal the championship if he wins and Vettel finishes lower than fifth.
The Briton, though, expects Ferrari to be fighting at the sharp end, so will not change his approach.
“He [Vettel] has been a strong fighter all year,” the Mercedes driver said. “Obviously he’s had a few technical issues but I think still the car is as good as it’s always been.
“For sure they’ll have some sort of upgrade coming this weekend. They’ve definitely had a couple of hiccups but I anticipate they’ll be very strong this weekend and for the last four races.
“That’s why nothing changes for me. I’ve still got to continue to put the pressure on. There’s no reason to back out, just keep pushing forwards.”
“Honestly I think the talk of the championship win this weekend is silly really. You can’t expect them to have a difficult weekend again. They’re going to be quick.”
Hamilton ‘doesn’t care’ where he clinches the crown, as long as he gets the job done in the four remaining races.
“We’ve got an opportunity to win the championship, as long as it’s done in the next four races that’s my focus,” he said.
“I honestly couldn’t care whether it was here or the last race. As long as it’s done.”
The 32-year-old will nonetheless head into the weekend brimming with confidence, having won four of the five Grands Prix held at the Circuit of the Americas.
