Lewis Hamilton not getting carried away as world championship reaches climax

Mercedes driver Lewis Hamilton has insisted that he is not getting "too excited" as he edges closer to winning his second world championship title.

The 29-year-old is currently at the top of the driver rankings with a 17-point lead over teammate Nico Rosberg.

There are just three races remaining in this season's Formula 1 calendar, but the winner of the final grand prix in Abu Dhabi will receive double points.

In his column for BBC Sport, Hamilton said: "I've managed to build a 17-point lead. I don't think it's to do with luck. I have kind of turned it up a notch. Through the year, you have to keep doing that, keep applying new pressure.

"I don't feel any tension or excitement at the moment. Each day is just another day."

Hamilton will take to the track in Austin, Texas for this weekend's United States Grand Prix.