Tire safety problems may have put an end to his chances of winning the Turkish Grand Prix, but the continuing presence of Lewis Hamilton in the battle to win the Formula 1 Drivers’ Championship in spite of what have so far been substandard races from the Briton looks ominous for the other contenders.

World Champion Kimi Räikkönen, of Ferrari, holds a seven-point lead over Hamilton after five races, and is the favourite amongst all the popular sports betting companies to retain his title, with Blue Square Sports Betting having him available at odds of ½*. Hamilton, who is level with Räikkönen’s team mate Felipe Massa on 28 points, is available at 7/2* with Massa at 9/2*.

Yet anyone betting on who will win will be aware of the potential of Hamilton. Räikkönen’s may be favourite, but all eyes are on Hamilton, particularly in this country, as he attempts to put the disappointment of last season behind him and become champion. Having missed out to Räikkönen in the very last race of last season, Hamilton has shown great strength to start this season in the way he has, and though he is certainly not at his best, it is telling that he remains so close to Räikkönen. Problems with the car have also held him back so far, but it would still take a brave soul to bet against Hamilton, in spite of Räikkönen’s status as favourite.

Gone are the days in F1 where Michael Schumacher would cruise to the championship every year, nowadays it’s too close to call amongst the top racers in the sport. But whoever eventually winds up champion, be it Räikkönen, Massa or Hamilton, it would be foolish to write off the golden boy of British motor sport yet.

*All odds taken from Blue Square Betting unless otherwise stated. Odds subject to change.