Lewis Hamilton has won a thrilling Brazilian Grand Prix, edging Championship leader Max Verstappen into second spot at Interlagos.
After several days of penalties, investigations and equipment changes, Hamilton defied starting on 10th spot to potentially record one of the biggest wins of his illustrious career.
Verstappen and Red Bull teammate Sergio Perez made light work of moving past Valtteri Bottas during the opening stages, while Hamilton was making his way through the pack with authority.
At one stage, it appeared like Hamilton may have to make do with a place on the podium, but the defending champion closed the gap on his rival during the closing stages of an absorbing race.
Hamilton felt aggrieved when the officials sided with Verstappen, despite the Dutchman appearing to force the Mercedes driver off the track.
Nevertheless, Hamilton finally overtook Verstappen with 11 laps remaining, and he was able to cruise through to the chequered flag.
Verstappen now holds a 14-point advantage with three races left, the next chapter in the title race due to be written in Qatar next week.
Bottas finished ahead of Perez for the final place on the podium, with the Ferrari duo of Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz Jnr in fifth and sixth respectively.
Darren Plant
