Austin — Lewis Hamilton moved a step closer to his fourth world championship on Sunday when he won the United States Grand Prix, coming home ahead of his nearest title rival Sebastian Vettel. The 32-year-old Briton, who started from a record 72nd pole position, recovered after losing his advantage at the start to regain the lead and steer his Mercedes to his ninth win this year, his fifth in Texas and the 62nd of his career. Four-time champion Vettel came home second for Ferrari and with three races remaining trails Hamilton by 66 points in the drivers’ title race. Hamilton now needs to finish only fifth in Mexico next weekend to claim a fourth world title. "We had a beautiful day. I love this track. I think this track is now my favourite," said Hamilton. Hamilton’s victory, with Mercedes team-mate Valtteri Bottas finishing fifth, confirmed the team as constructors’ champions for 2017 and for the fourth consecutive season. "At the start it was looking good but quickly we realised we...

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