I really believe that Lewis' marketing value as a Mercedes World Champion grew dramatically after Spa. The Japanese are generally too polite to boo, but when Lewis took the lead from Nico at Suzuka it was clear who the favorite was. The way Lewis dealt with his on-track adversity actually endeared many people to him internationally; it wasn't just the "British fans" as Nico mistakenly believed.
Looks like he's in a good headspace ATM, he needs to stay there. Having that second WDC under his belt reduces the pressure and I believe he will be even more focused on achieving the next.
I think this is the season where he grew up, I really do: this was a different Hamilton that I have watched over the seasons. I think with WDC #2 wrapped up, he'll be pretty strong next season. However, I reiterate, Rosberg is no slouch and if you look at the gulf between them on race day, Rosberg can improve. I will back Hamilton, but I may have a cheeky punt on Rosberg too, each way of course ;)
Just read an article on the BBC about the forthcoming review of the season on Sat BBC1 at 1pm (probably be available on iPlayer after that), in which he claims Rosberg braked 10m late at Monaco, which explains his 'if you could see the telemetry' comment. Brings a new light to the argument; as Hamilton says, 2m late is a mistake, 10m?
Interesting article on there if you fancy a read.
http://www.bbc.co.uk...rmula1/30501655
Edit: Forgot to add that Lauda had a word with Rosberg post Spa and said, effectively, Hamilton was better at overtaking than him, which was why his attempt at Spa was wrong, as only Hamilton could have pulled off the move. Prey eye opening...
Edited by MissingTheApex, 17 December 2014 - 08:14.