Lewis Hamilton can stop bitter rival Nico Rosberg taking his throne in Brazil – but only if it rains

LEWIS HAMILTON had better start practising his rain dance if he wants to extend his reign as the Formula One champion.

The Brit, who made the perfect start by being fastest in first practice, faces a huge task stopping bitter enemy Nico Rosberg lifting the world title in Brazil.

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Reuters

Rosberg can steal Hamilton’s crown with victory in Sao Paulo, a track he has won at for the past two years. But 2009 world champion Jenson Button reckons the German will slip up if the heavens open tomorrow — forcing the title chase down to the last race of the season in Abu Dhabi.

McLaren ace Button, 36, said: “If the race is dry, Lewis is the only guy who’s going to challenge him. He’s just got to get through Turn One.

“Nico’s got a big enough lead to finish second in both races but I think the idea of a wet race will worry him. Then the pressure is there, definitely. One small mistake and it could end in disaster.

AP:Associated Press

AP:Associated Press

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“If it’s dry it’s a walk in the park but if it’s wet here, then I’d pick Lewis for the title. If it’s dry here, then I’d say Nico.”

Three-time world champ Hamilton, 31, thrives in wet races. He was faultless at Monaco in a downpour — while Mercedes team-mate Rosberg faulted — and the British star also won at a soggy Silverstone.

Yet despite Button’s claims, Rosberg insists he is NOT feeling the pressure.

When quizzed if he would prefer a wet or dry race, the 31-year-old said: “I wouldn’t mind both, as it makes no difference. I’ve felt comfortable on this track even in the wet.”