Hamilton aiming to move closer to title at Japanese GP

Lewis Hamilton can take a major step toward a fifth Formula One title at this weekend's Japanese Grand Prix at Suzuka, a race the Mercedes driver has dominated in recent years. After winning last week's Russian Grand Prix, Hamilton leads Ferrari's Sebastian Vettel by 50 points with five races left. "Lewis is hungry, focused and completely determined to succeed," Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff said. "It's been great to see the power he has brought to this championship, and how he has taken it to the next level." Wolff insisted ahead of the Japanese GP that the team orders tactic was justified. "The battle with Ferrari remains extremely close, as was underlined by Sebastian's pace on Sunday and the pressure he put us under," Wolff said. "In the end, we left Sochi with a bigger lead. But we know that doesn't mean anything because our fight with Ferrari is far from being over."