But the Ferrari driver suffered a DNF at the Japanese Grand Prix, giving Hamilton a glimmer of hope in his quest to finish above the Spaniard as he came home in fifth in the rainy conditions in Suzuka.
It was the fifth time in 18 races that Sainz has failed to finish the race, while Hamilton has only had one DNF all season, which could play a key role in the climax of their battle.
Hamilton spoke of his confidence in his car gradually becoming quicker with more developments after the summer break and believes they can “close the gap” on those at the front.
“The car is becoming more of a racing car, which is not particularly what it was the beginning of the year, more like a normal racing car in the sense of its characteristics, so that’s positive,” Hamilton said in August.
