Wolff: 'It's a huge one but let's not think about the title yet'

Sebastian Vettel's demise from the Japanese GP has offered a huge break to Mercedes and Lewis Hamilton, but Toto Wolff isn't considering the title as done and dusted.

Hamilton now enjoys a huge 59-point lead in the championship, with four races remaining and could actually even clinch the crown in Austin in two weeks.

But Wolff is focused on the day's achievement and not looking that far ahead.

"It's a huge one," said the Mercedes boss after Ham's win.

"Obviously the misfortunes of Ferrari are unbelievable, third bad race in a row, but Lewis drove a spectacular race.

"Once he knew that Sebastian was out he was managing it to the end, with a little scare on the last lap."

• Hamilton clinches win in Suzuka after early exit for Vettel

Despite the setbacks of Mercedes' main rival, Wolff acknowledged that Red Bull was also once again snapping at its heels, with Max Verstappen finishing close behind Hamilton on Sunday.

"They have made a big step, and it's good to see that all three teams are really fighting for wins there. To date, it has swung in our direction but going forward I think this is the new reality.

"Three teams that can play for race wins and championships."

Odds of Hamilton clinching the title have now skyrocketed dramatically, but Wolff still isn't ready to relax.

"If four races ago I would have told you that Sebastian is going to DNF two times and not score well one time, you would have said it's almost impossible.

"This is motor racing, you have a DNF or two and suddenly the whole thing swings the other way around, so let's count the chickens when they hatch!"

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