Categories: F1 News, Reports and Race ResultsMercedes

Hamilton out to reclaim victory

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Lewis Hamilton will be looking to prevent team mate Nico Rosberg from making it three on a trot this weekend in Abu Dhabi, and wrap up his championship year with one last win, the 44th of his illustrious career.

Dominant performances in Mexico and Brazil by Rosberg now put the ball resolutely on Lewis Hamilton's side of the Mercedes garage but the newly crowned triple World Champion will have his work cut out to reclaim victory from his rival as the curtain falls on 2015.

Last year, Hamilton clinched the title at the ultimate round, but with everything now sealed and stamped, prestige and a race win will be the only rewards on tap for the season's finale.

"The Yas Marina really is a stunning place to hold the season-ending Grand Prix," Hamilton said.

"The organisers clearly spent a lot of time and effort on designing the most spectacular venue imaginable and the track is one I really enjoy driving.

"It’s actually a really challenging circuit. There are a couple of high speed corners but it’s mostly medium to low speed, so despite the long straights you need to set the car up with a downforce level tuned for low speed grip.

"It’s also a twilight race, starting late afternoon and running into the night, which is quite unusual and I imagine must be pretty cool to watch on TV.

"Last year, this place brought probably the most intense weekend of my life. I didn’t sleep much through nerves and not knowing what was ahead. But this time around there’s no pressure, so I’ll be well-rested and aiming to go out on a high.

"A lot of British fans come out to Abu Dhabi so it’s like another home crowd for me. To win for them and show how grateful I am for the fantastic support I’ve had all year would be the best way to end an incredible season."

Unfinished business: the scores still to be settled in Abu Dhabi

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.