Monza: Defending world champion Lewis Hamilton heads to this weekend's Italian Grand Prix knowing that a hat-trick of successive wins at Monza will put him in charge of the title race after one of the most rollercoaster seasons of his career. The Briton has a nine-point lead ahead of Mercedes teammate Nico Rosberg ahead of the final race of the European season, leaving seven overseas contests remaining.

Lewis Hamilton realises he will face a tough challenge from not only Nico Rosberg, but also Ferrari on their home turf. Pic/Getty Images