Lewis Hamilton and Nico Rosberg have both come out fighting ahead of their Formula One world title showdown next weekend.
Ahead of the final race of the campaign in Abu Dhabi, being dubbed ‘The Duel in the Desert’, Hamilton holds a 17-point advantage over Mercedes team-mate Rosberg.
A top-two finish for Hamilton will guarantee him his second crown, six years after his first in dramatic circumstances in 2008.
As for Rosberg, with double points controversially on offer for the first time in the sport’s history, the German knows victory combined with Hamilton coming home third or worse will see him claim the championship.
Naturally, the duo are exuding confidence given the dominance of the team and their car this season, with numerous records being set.
Hamilton said: “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 cham-pionship all over again.
“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.”
If neither car encounters technical issues it should be a run to the line for both, although Hamilton has in the back in of his mind the fear of a problem proving costly.
“I’ve a good record at the Abu Dhabi circuit,” added Hamilton.
“Last year was actually the only time I’ve not started on the front row or finished on the podium.
“But I’ve also had some misfortune there over the years, particularly in 2012 (retired with a fuel-pressure fault when leading).
“I’m hoping bad luck won’t play a part this time around.”
Rosberg, despite being the man who needs a problem for Hamilton if he is to emerge victorious, is positive he can become champion.
“I absolutely believe I still have the chance,” he enthused.
“It won’t be easy, but I’ll be full attack. Although this has been my first year fighting for the world title, I’ve never felt more comfortable than I have done this year.
“The team behind us have done an incredible job and it’s great they’ve given both of us equal op-portunity in the championship.
“There have been difficult mo-ments just as there have been amazing moments, but this is what Formula One is all about and I hope that everyone watching at home has enjoyed the story of this battle as much as I have.
“Win or lose, double points or no double points, I feel proud of what I have achieved this year, and especially proud to have been a part of this fantastic season for the Silver Arrows.
“I go into this race with no fear and with every belief this can be my title. It’s not over until that flag drops!”
Top positions
1. Hamilton (Mercedes) - 334
2. Rosberg (Mercedes) - 317
3. Ricciardo (Red Bull) - 214
4. Vettel (Red Bull) - 159
5. Alonso (Ferrari) - 157
6. Bottas (Williams) - 156
7. Button (McLaren) - 106
8. Massa (Williams) - 98
9. Hulkenberg (Force India) - 80
10. Magnussen (McLaren) - 55