Nico Rosberg is one step closer to his first F1 title

Nico Rosberg put himself one step closer to the 2016 World Championship by securing the 23rd win of his career in Suzuka, opening up his advantage on Lewis Hamilton to 33 points.

That means Hamilton can win all the remaining races and Rosberg could still win the title by just finishing second each time. In other words, Hamilton’s destiny is no longer in his hands.

“Just the whole weekend went really well from the word go,” said Rosberg. “I just felt good in the car, found the right balance and all the way through to qualifying. Got that lap done and then the start went well, just everything went well.

“I was just controlling the pace and the gap to Max in the race. Perfect weekend, really. Really happy with that. To win on this legendary track as well. I’m well aware of the 33 points of course, but it’s not something I’m focused on, as you know.

“I just want to take it race by race. That’s what I did this weekend, focused on trying to win the race and very happy it worked out. Still many races to go, so just keeping my head down.

“There’s no point in changing my approach now. I’m sticking with what I’m doing because it’s working well.”

Formula One will be back in action in two weeks time for the United States Grand Prix.