Hamilton: I’ve had Nico covered so far

Mercedes’ Lewis Hamilton feels he has had Formula One points leader Nico Rosberg covered since the start of the Brazilian Grand Prix weekend after securing a crucial pole position at Interlagos.

The Briton outpaced his title rival by 0.102s in Q3, having also edged him in the first two parts of Saturday's qualifying. The only session Hamilton has not topped so far in Brazil is the third and final free practice where he trailed Rosberg by 0.093s.

“I felt quite comfortable in qualifying as I’ve have done all through the weekend to be honest,” the triple world champion said. “Nico has been getting quicker and quicker but I’ve generally had it covered throughout the weekend.”

Currently 19 points adrift of Rosberg in the Drivers’ standings, Hamilton must prevent his team-mate from winning the race in order to extend the title fight to the season finale in Abu Dhabi.

“It’s the best that I could have hoped for coming into Brazil. This is only my second pole here. It’s always a track that I’ve struggled so I'm really happy to be up in the front.”

Hamilton has never tasted victory at the historic Autodromo José Carlos Pace but he did claim his first world title back in 2008 in a wild rain-hit contest.

Asked whether he would welcome mixed conditions again on Sunday, the 31-year-old, who boasts impressive wet-weather credentials, replied: “I don’t really mind. I’m ready for whatever.”

Rosberg has won the past two editions of the Brazilian GP, defeating Hamilton from pole position on both occasions.

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