Hamilton plays down title talk

LEWIS Hamilton refused to contemplate the prospect of becoming the first rookie Formula One world champion despite a stunning victory in a thrilling Japanese Grand Prix yesterday.

The McLaren star opened up a 12-point gap at the top of the standings when he claimed a vital triumph at a drenched Fuji Speedway after closest rival Fernando Alonso had spun off into the safety barrier on lap 42 of 67.

The downcast look on the Spaniard’s face said it all as he stood at the side of the track surveying the wreckage of both his car and his dreams of a third consecutive drivers’ title.