Hamilton: Feels like first title shot

LewisHamilton

The Brit is top of the drivers' championship with 334 points, 17 clear of Mercedes team-mate Nico Rosberg.

With double points on offer in the final race of the season, Hamilton will secure his second world title by finishing second or better.

Hamilton, who last won the title in 2008, said it felt like he was aiming for his first championship.

"People talk about how long it's been since I won the title - but I honestly feel like I'm fighting for my first world championship all over again," he said.

"Sure, I'm older and maybe a little bit wiser than I was back then. I've learnt a lot in the years since 2008 - but I'm still the same driver.

"I still have the same hunger, the same will to win, and I've been giving it everything I've got from the word go this season."

Hamilton was victorious in Abu Dhabi in 2011, but mixed in with that is two retirements, a second-place finish and a seventh.

A fuel pick-up problem led to his retirement in 2012, and Hamilton hopes luck is on his side on Sunday.

"I've got a good record at the Abu Dhabi circuit. Last year was actually the only time I've not started on the front row or finished on the podium," he said.

"But I've also had some misfortune there over the years - particularly in 2012.

"I'm hoping that bad luck won't play a part this time around and I know that the team has been working flat out to make sure it doesn't. I'm feeling relaxed, I'm feeling confident and I'm ready to win."

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