Lewis Hamilton powers to dominant win at Japanese GP

SUZUKA, Japan – Mercedes driver Lewis Hamilton won the Japanese Grand Prix on Sunday to widen his lead in the Formula One title race.

Hamilton capitalized on a strong start and surged ahead of teammate Nico Rosberg at the first corner. He led the rest of the way, crossing the finish line a comfortable 18.9 seconds ahead of Rosberg, who started from pole. Ferrari driver Sebastian Vettel was third.

Hamilton, who was forced to retire at last weekend’s Singapore GP, claimed his eighth win of the season. It was his 41st career win, tying him with his childhood hero Ayrton Senna.