Hamilton not thinking of numbers game despite strong title odds

Lewis Hamilton is not letting himself think about the result required in this weekend's Mexican Grand Prix to clinch a fourth Formula 1 world title despite the odds being heavily in his favour following his victory in Austin on Sunday.

Hamilton swept to his ninth win of the year in the United States Grand Prix to extend his lead over Ferrari rival Sebastian Vettel to 66 points with three races remaining.

Hamiton requires a top-five finish in any of the final three races to clinch his fourth world title, with a coronation on Sunday in Mexico looking likely given his recent form that has seen him take five wins in the last six grands prix.

Despite the odds being stacked heavily in his favour - bookmakers are giving best odds of 1/500 of Hamilton winning the title - the Mercedes driver is not letting himself think about the result he needs to seal the title.

"I don’t really let my mind get there. At the moment, I’m just focused on winning, clearly, and I’m enjoying driving more than ever," Hamilton said.

"The challenge, the pressure’s intense. Just always want to elevate yourself and shine brighter each time you get in the car. Today I had to make a couple of changes, adjustments with the temperature ramping up as it did. I just got it right on point.

"I guess all the experience of all the years really came into play because I got the balance just perfect. If I hadn’t made those changes I probably would have gone backwards.

"There’s still three races to go. In my mind, I’ve still got three races to win. Still a lot of points available.

"So I don’t think until it’s ever properly done and sealed you can ever get ahead of yourself."