Lewis Hamilton insists he is taking nothing for granted ahead of the United States Grand Prix despite being on the brink of a third world championship.
Hamilton's victory at the Russian Grand Prix, coupled with a retirement for team-mate Nico Rosberg, means he can retain the championship in Austin if he heads a Mercedes one-two for the second year in a row. Despite holding 66 points over Ferrari's Sebastian Vettel with 100 points to play for from the final four races Hamilton is not changing his approach ahead of this weekend.
"I've learned from experience that nothing is ever done until it's done in this sport, so I won't be taking anything for granted going into the weekend," Hamilton said. "I'm going into this next race with the same approach I've had all year. There are four races left for me to get this championship tied up and as long as it's done by the time I cross the line in Abu Dhabi that's what really counts. I'm excited to get out there, give my best and if I can come away with a third Stetson hat that would be unbelievable."
Mercedes has used the time since the Russian Grand Prix to celebrate its second consecutive constructors' championship and Hamilton has taken another opportunity to thank the team for its hard work.
"It's been great to catch up with the team back at the factories and to celebrate together the amazing achievements of this year. I can't say enough how grateful I am for all the hard work and it's important that we savour these moments. Now, we head off to Austin, which is definitely one of the highlights of the year for me. I love the States and spend a lot of time over there, so it's a weekend I always look forward to."