After failing twice, Rosberg wins Japan GP from pole position to extend lead over Hamilton by 33 points; Mercedes secure constructors' championship
Mercedes driver Nico Rosberg exults on the podium after winning the Japanese Grand Prix in Suzuka yesterday. Pic/Getty Images
Mercedes driver Nico Rosberg exults on the podium after winning the Japanese Grand Prix in Suzuka yesterday. Pic/Getty Images
Suzuka: Nico Rosberg cruised to an unchallenged win in yesterday's Japanese Grand Prix with a drive that handed Mercedes their third straight constructors' crown and his prospects of clinching a maiden Formula One title a massive boost.
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The German crossed the line 4.9 seconds clear of Max Verstappen who finished second in as many races for Red Bull, after fending off a charging Lewis Hamilton who recovered from a botched start to finish third.
Dominant Rosberg
Rosberg now leads Hamilton by 33 points in the overall standings, following the 23rd win of his career and ninth this year. With just four rounds left, the 31-year-old — who becomes only the fifth driver in F1 history to win nine races in a single season — can clinch his maiden title even if he doesn't win again this year.
Hamilton went into the race needing to revive his flagging championship prospects. But any hopes the Briton had of building on his front-row start were dashed by a slow getaway that saw him plummet down the order to eighth.
A mix of his trademark spectacular overtaking and clever strategy by Mercedes saw him scythe through the field, with Hamilton very nearly snatching second from Verstappen. But he had to settle for the final podium spot after running wide while attempting a last-gasp move on the Red Bull two laps from the end.
Force India extend lead
Fourth-placed Force India extended their lead over rival Williams to 10 points by recording a double points finish. Sergio Perez came home in seventh place ahead of teammate Nico Hulkenberg, who finished eighth after starting ninth on the grid.
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