Horner: Holding up Rosberg 'the only chance' for Hamilton

Red Bull team principal Christian Horner reiterates his view that Lewis Hamilton should try to hold up title rival Nico Rosberg so others could overtake the Formula One points leader on Sunday’s Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

The Briton needs to put several cars between him and his Mercedes team-mate if he is to erase his 12-point gap and seal a fourth world title.

Horner had first suggested the idea of backing up Rosberg earlier this week, but Hamilton replied in Thursday’s pre-race press conference that it was neither practical, nor easy, nor wise.

“For Lewis, his job is the easiest this weekend,” the Red Bull team boss told Sky Sports F1 after FP1 where his drivers ran the Mercedes duo close. “He just has to go out and try to win the race.

“It’s no good if Nico is just behind him. I suggested [holding him up] the other day and Lewis did not like the sound of it, but that’s the only chance he’s got really.”

Talking about Red Bull’s strong 2016 campaign, which has already yielded two wins, 15 podiums and second place in the Constructors' championship, Horner says the team is very keen to finish on a high.

“It’s been a season that has exceed all our expectations. Coming into the year, we thought we’d struggle to be in the top five. We’ve ended up winning a couple of races, beating Ferrari, and being Mercedes’ nearest competitors.

“So if we could sneak another podium here it would be a great way to sign off the year.”

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