Hamilton controls title race after Monza masterclass

Lewis Hamilton revelled in his role as pantomime villain of the Italian Grand Prix after he crushed rival Sebastian Vettel at Ferrari’s home race to take charge of the title battle for the first time this year.

Hamilton, who has been in mesmerising form since the sport’s summer break, followed his victory at last week’s race in Belgium with a dominant display here at Monza to move three points clear of Vettel.

The passionate tifosi jeered Hamilton as he collected his winner’s trophy, with Vettel an eye-watering half a minute down the road in third, while Valtteri Bottas crossed the line in second to complete a one-two finish for Mercedes.